How To Prepare Your Heating System for Winter
As the colder season approaches, it’s important to ensure your heating system is capable of meeting your comfort demands. A well-maintained heating system operates efficiently, saving you money on energy bills and reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns during periods of extreme cold.
In this guide, the heating service experts at SOS Xtreme Comfort walk you through the essential steps to take to keep your system prepared for the changing weather.
Check Your Air Filters
One of the simplest yet most effective tasks in preparing your heating system for the colder weather is checking your air filters. Dirty or clogged filters can significantly reduce your system’s efficiency, leading to higher utility bills and potential damage over time. To avoid this, be sure to clean and replace your air filters at the recommended intervals (typically once every 90 days, or sooner if you have pets or suffer from allergies).
To check your air filter, follow the steps below:
- Turn off your heating system.
- Locate the filter, typically found near the blower compartment, in the return air duct, or within the furnace itself.
- Replace or clean the filter if it appears dirty or clogged, following the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and reinstallation if you have a reusable filter.
Test Your Thermostat
Before the winter weather settles in, it’s important to test your thermostat to ensure it’s working properly. Start by switching your thermostat settings from cooling to heating. Set the temperature a few degrees higher than the current room temperature and listen for your heating system to kick on.
If your unit doesn’t start or seems to have trouble maintaining the desired temperature, it may be time to consider a thermostat replacement. Now may be a good time to invest in a smart or programmable thermostat. These devices allow you to set a specific temperature for different times of the day, optimizing energy consumption and ensuring your home is warm when you need it most. A smart thermostat can even learn your heating habits and adjust automatically, making it a convenient, energy-efficient option for winter.
Clear Your Vents
Your heating system works best when air can flow freely through your home, so it’s essential to ensure all vents and registers are open and unobstructed. Take a walk through your home and check that no furniture, rugs, or other objects block the airflow. Even partially blocked vents place unnecessary strain on your heating system, leading to higher energy bills and potential wear and tear on your unit.
Additionally, take the time to give your vents and registers a thorough cleaning. Dust and debris can accumulate over time, reducing airflow and potentially circulating allergens throughout your home. Use a vacuum with a hose attachment or duster to clean inside the vents. Keeping your vents clear and clean ensures that your heating system operates at peak efficiency and helps maintain good indoor air quality.
Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up
Perhaps the most important step in preparing your heating system for the winter is scheduling a professional furnace tune-up. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your furnace operating efficiently and reliably. A professional technician will inspect your system, clean critical components, check for potential issues, and ensure everything functions properly.
A furnace tune-up typically includes:
- Inspecting the heat exchanger
- Checking the thermostat
- Tightening electrical connections
- Lubricating moving parts
This thorough checkup helps identify and address minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs or cause a breakdown on the coldest days of the year. By scheduling furnace maintenance, you help ensure your system is capable of keeping your home comfortable all winter long.
Choose SOS Xtreme Comfort for Expert Heating Services
Preparing your heating system for winter is essential for ensuring your home remains warm and cozy when it counts. At SOS Xtreme Comfort, we offer the comprehensive heating services you need to survive the coldest days of the year. From furnace tune-ups to thermostat upgrades to emergency heating repairs, our experienced technicians are dedicated to keeping your heating system in top shape.
Contact us to schedule your heating system maintenance and ensure your home is ready for winter!
