Prepping Your Heating for The Fall

We’ve talked about how to take care of your air conditioning for the summer before. Now that it is getting colder, it’s time discuss how to start prepping your heating systems to take on the cold. While there may be a few warm days left this year, now is a good time to start preparing for those cold fall days so that you are not left without the heating you need to stay comfortable when the weather turns. Read on to learn about the various steps you need to take to make sure your heating system is functioning at its best potential. 

 

Check Your Air Filters

One of the most critical, and easiest, things to do is to check your air filters to make sure they are not clogged. Clogged air filters make your heating system work harder to heat your home which means higher energy bills for you. Depending on the severity of the condition, the particulate matter caught in them can cause your system to malfunction or lower your home’s air quality. If you have washable filters, then clean them by vacuuming or rinsing them according to the manufacturer’s care instructions or replace disposable filters as needed. It can be a good idea to give your air filters a once over just before winter really kicks in too. 

 

Check Your Home and Ducts for Leaks

Another major cause for high energy bills and inefficient heating are air leaks in your home. Air leaks from windows and doors create drafts allowing cold air to seep into your home. Seal any leaky areas with weatherstripping or caulk, or replace your frames as needed.

Checking your ductwork for leaks and repairing them isn’t as easy and is a job best left to the professionals. 

 

Clean Your Outdoor Unit

If you have an outdoor unit, clean it of any leaves, dirt and other debris that have accumulated around it. It’s also a good idea to clean the inside of your outdoor unit by turning it off and unscrewing the top to access the coils to clean them as well. It is not a procedure meant for novices and is best left to professionals. This will allow air to flow through it without any obstructions. 

 

Check the Flue

Some heating systems have a flue connected to a chimney. The flue is how carbon monoxide is removed from your home. The flue cap needs to be removed and any debris that has accumulated must be cleaned to prevent toxic gases from blowing back into your home.

While you’re at it, check your home’s smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are all functioning properly. Replace old batteries. Replace the detectors if they are over or close to 10 years old.

 

Make Sure Your Vents Are Clear

Blocked vents can prevent warm air from circulating through your home. Make sure that there is no furniture or other obstacles blocking the vents so air can flow freely. 

 

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat gives your system a rest when you’re not at home by turning down the heating slightly. It helps your HVAC system last longer. You can regulate heating schedules with an app on your smartphone or even control it remotely if needed. 

 

Retire An Old System

Sometimes the best thing you can do for your home is to say goodbye to an outdated heating system. You may find that mounting repair costs work out to be more expensive in the long run while newer, more energy efficient systems can help you save money over time. At W&J Heating, we offer financing through SNAP, so you do not have to shiver through the cold months. 

 

Get the Professionals In

Although you may fancy going DIY (after all, you see your heating system go through a check-up every year), there are several issues a professional will spot that you may not. They will also be able to let you know where potential problems lie and mitigate them before they turn into expensive repairs.

Whether you have a HVAC system or you get your heating from a standalone furnace, the best thing you can do is to call in a professional heating maintenance company to give your entire system a tune-up. It can help you avoid unnecessary (and expensive!) repair bills later.

Get in touch and schedule your heating systems maintenance visit to stay warm during the fall and winter today!