When you think about preparing your home for the winter, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s taking care of your plants or flower beds, preparing your water lines, or draining your pool. But taking care of your HVAC system should be added to that list. After all, home heating will become pretty important to you over the coming months!
Proper care and maintenance of your home heating system can extend its lifespan and can save you money. Here are our top tips for keeping your home warm throughout the winter, and saving some money on your energy bills while you do it.
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Winter Maintenance of Your HVAC System
The first step is to prepare every piece of your system. Check your air filter once per month and replace them when dirty. This step alone can have an outsized impact when it comes to saving money and ensuring that your system produces its best results.
Next, clean around your system outside. Remove any sticks or other debris that might interfere with any parts of the HVAC system. Make sure to schedule a time with your HVAC system servicer to conduct routine maintenance. Do this in the fall, that way any issues can be resolved prior to you needing the system desperately. Routine maintenance will make for a healthier, more efficient system for as long as possible.
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Use Humidifiers Throughout the Winter
Did you know that temperature isn’t the only thing that contributes to comfort in the home? Many people face issues with humidity in the winter. As the air becomes colder, it loses the ability to hold as much water. This lack of humidity can lead to dry sinuses and skin, breathing issues, and can even make it easier for cold and flu germs to circulate.
Introducing a humidifier is a good way to alleviate these issues and maintain maximum comfort in your home. You should aim for 30-50 percent relative humidity in your home, as anything higher will make it uncomfortably stuffy, and make it easy for bacteria and mold to form and grow.
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Program Your Home Heating
Despite what rumors you’ve heard, there is no benefit to keeping your home heated at all times. If no one will be around for several hours or days in a row, consider turning your down. This small change will increase your energy efficiency while saving you money.
If you have a smart thermostat, you can control your home’s temperature remotely and raise it before anyone returns home. You can also program your thermostat to match your day-to-day schedule.
If you don’t have a smart thermostat, you’re not out of luck. Simply be more careful with how much you choose to adjust the thermostat. Lowering the temperature for part of the day will contribute greatly to savings.
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Reverse the Ceiling Fan for Heating Season
Be sure to reverse the direction of your ceiling fans between heating and cooling seasons so they can aid your heater or air conditioning’s efficiency. The ceiling fan will blow down hot air when the fan moves clockwise. This is especially important for the upstairs rooms.
Making sure air circulates properly will help to get rid of cold spots and will make it easier on your system to maintain temperatures. This simple switch will even allow you to lower the temperature by up to four degrees and feel the same heating effect.
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