Winter is coming. (In comes Game of Thrones intro.) While you shouldn’t have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still important to make sure your home is all set for the cold. Here are a couple suggestions from A1 Chesney Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Near Air Returns
You don’t need cold air returns in the cooler months right? Wrong. Confirm your air returns (the more sizable vents) are not obstructed and that air can easily flow through them. Your cold air returns are needed to help your heating equipment run efficiently.
Upgrade Your Windows
Windows are a common way that heat can escape your home, so consider replacing old or inefficient windows to help retain heat inside during the cooler months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With allergy and cold season nearing, you want to be sure you’re doing anything you can to keep your family from falling ill. For the well-being of your indoor air, make sure you’re replacing your furnace or duct air filter every few months. This will also help your system run more efficiently and save you energy, which means saving you money on heating bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your furnace is older than ten years, it’s most likely not nearly as energy-efficient as newer furnaces. Before the cold hits and you’re stuck with a faulty furnace or high utility bills, discuss upgrading your system.
Purchase a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not sound right, but more humidity, more so in northern climates, can make your home’s air feel warmer than it is. Add the other benefits of less dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier may be the perfect addition to your heating system.
Get a Programmable Thermostat
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – a programmable thermostat decreases your energy use and bills no matter what season it is. A programmable thermostat will allow you to lower your home temperature while you are at work to help lower heating costs, and increase the temperature before you even get home to give you the right amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the ideal amount of attic insulation helps retain heat during the winter, lowering your energy use because your heating system doesn’t have to run as much, and therefore saves you money on heating bill. Check with your local utility companies about rebates on installing or upgrading your home’s insulation.
Cover Plumbing
If you insulate your hot water pipes, it can actually help boost the temperature two or three degrees. Warmer water on a cooler setting? That saves you energy and money – yes, please!
Get a Furnace Tune-Up
Be sure your furnace is ready to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from A1 Chesney . Right now we are providing discounts on our fall tune ups to help make sure your home stays warm and safe through the winter. Call 587-315-5271 today to schedule your heating tune-up or set up a no-charge in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient HVAC system.