Fall is here which means winter is just around the corner. Now is the time to have your HVAC system checked to make sure it works properly and to make any changes or upgrades in your home so that you’ll be cozy and warm when the cold weather strikes.
Follow these HVAC maintenance tips for fall and don’t get left out in the cold this winter.
- Switch the direction of your ceiling fans. In winter, fans should rotate clockwise to redistribute warm air from the heater, which will naturally rise to the ceiling.
- Seal cracks around your windows and doors to prevent cold drafts from blowing in.
- Seal around electrical outlets on exterior-facing walls. These can let in cold air, too.
- Add insulation to your attic, which will prevent warm air from leaving and cold air from getting in. Doing this will also lower your energy costs in winter and, later, in summer.
- Consider a programmable thermostat, which will give you greater control over the temperature settings in your home.
- Install a whole-house humidifier or get single room humidifiers for the bedrooms and living room. In the winter, the humidity is much lower which can cause sore throats, chapped lips, and runny noses.
- Replace your air filter every 30 days if they get dirty and up to every 90 days, especially if you don’t run your heater that much. Don’t let it go unchanged for longer than 90 days or it will stop moving warm air efficiently.
- Clean up the area around your outdoor condenser or heat pump for your HVAC system. When dirt, debris, or trash gets into the unit, it can cause damage or inefficient heating.
- Schedule your fall HVAC maintenance now. Your service technician will check for wear and tear and fix minor issues before they become big problems. This will help keep your heater running all winter long.
No one wants to be stuck shivering in their home on a cold day because their heater broke down. Take care of your HVAC system this fall so you know it will be there for you when you need it throughout the cold winter months.
Have questions about other ways to take care of your home or what kinds of accidents your homeowners’ insurance covers? Contact us at Charlotte Insurance.