Snow and freezing temperatures might seem far off, but the winter chill will set in here in New Jersey before you know it. Once the first snowstorm hits, the last thing you want to discover is a malfunctioning or failing heating system. Regular preventative maintenance can help address issues sooner and prolong the life of your equipment, but failing to schedule your HVAC tune-up before it’s too late can lead to breakdowns and costly repairs. Below we share some of the most essential winter preparation tasks you should add to your checklist, winterizing your HVAC system.
Change the filter.
Replace your air filters frequently, at least twice a year. Filters filled with dust and debris can cause an HVAC breakdown because dirty filters can cause your system to work harder. Keep plenty of backup filters on hand, so you don’t have an excuse for not having a replacement. Additionally, check and clear the air vents throughout your home. Your vents can also accumulate dust and debris, causing ventilation blockages and inefficient airflow.
Turn your heating system on before the cold weather.
During the fall season, before it’s time to power on your heating system for the winter, fire up your furnace at least three times to ensure everything is functioning as expected. Set your thermostat to your desired winter indoor temperature and let your house reach that climate before turning it off. If you don’t know the best temperature for a heater in the winter, the experts at Clay’s Climate Control can help.
Conduct a visual inspection.
No matter where your heating system is located, whether in the basement or attic, it’s a smart idea to perform a visual inspection before you power your unit for the winter season. Keep the area around your heater clean and clear. Remove dirt and debris and any items stored around the furnace to ensure airflow to the unit isn’t blocked. If your furnace is hard to access, consider calling a professional.
Turn the heat down.
Do you know the best temperature for a heater in the winter? To achieve the most comfortable indoor temperature and save energy and money on your monthly utility bills, experts recommend setting your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re home, then lowering the thermostat 10-12 degrees at night or during the day when you’re not home. Lowering the heat can shave at least 10% off your heating bill.
Winterize outdoor HVAC equipment.
Southern New Jersey experiences extremely cold and bitter weather conditions in the winter. From freezing temperatures to blizzard-like conditions, it’s a good idea to fully winterize your outdoor AC unit before these extreme conditions occur. On a mild fall day, take some time to remove twigs, sticks, and other debris from your outdoor unit. Additionally, you can cover your HVAC unit with a waterproof cover to avoid snow and ice as it accumulates.
Schedule a tune-up.
Regular maintenance ensures your heating system remains efficient, reliable, and safe during the winter. Furnaces and boilers should be serviced once a year, while heat pumps require maintenance in the fall for heating and spring for cooling. At Clay’s Climate Control, we offer superior HVAC preventative maintenance services to maintain a comfortable environment inside your home any time of the year.
Why Choose Clay’s Climate Control to Help With Your Winter Preparation?
Don’t get left out in the cold this winter! When you contact the experts at Clay’s Climate Control, we offer timely and efficient heating installation and repair services to keep your home up and running all winter. We also offer emergency heating services – just give us a call, and we’ll handle it all!
