Winter is coming. (Signal Game of Thrones theme.) While you shouldn’t have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still important to make sure your home is ready for the cold. Here are some tips from Eveready Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Surrounding Air Returns
You don’t need cold air returns in the cold season right? Wrong. Make sure your air returns (the bigger vents) are not obstructed and that air can easily flow through them. Your cold air returns are necessary to help your furnace run efficiently.
Update Your Windows
Windows are a usual way that heat can seep out your home, so consider updating old or inefficient windows to help retain heat inside during the cold months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With cold and flu season nearing, you want to be sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your family from falling ill. For the sake of your indoor air, make sure you’re replacing your furnace or duct air filter every quarter. This will also help your furnace run more efficiently and save you energy, which means lowering your energy bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your furnace is older than 10 years, it’s almost certainly not nearly as energy-efficient as newer heating systems. Before the cold hits and you’re stuck with a faulty furnace or high energy bills, think about investing in an upgraded system.
Buy a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not make sense when you hear it, but higher humidity, especially in northern climates, can make your home’s air feel warmer than it is. Add the other benefits of less dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier may be the perfect addition to your HVAC system.
Get a Programmable Thermostat
We can’t say it enough – a programmable thermostat decreases your energy use and bills no matter what season it is. A programmable thermostat will allow you to turn down your home temperature while you are at work to help lower heating costs, and increase the temperature before you even make it home to provide the right amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the correct amount of attic insulation helps trap heat in your home during the winter, decreasing your energy usage because your heating system doesn’t have to run as much, and therefore saves you money by lowering your heating costs. Inquire with your local utility companies about rebates for upgrading or installing your attic insulation.
Insulate Plumbing
Insulating your hot water pipes can actually help raise the temperature a few degrees. Warmer water on a lower setting? That saves you energy and money – yes, please!
Get a Precision Tune-Up
Make sure your furnace is ready to keep your home warm and cozy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Eveready . Right now we are giving discounts on our seasonal tune ups to help make sure your home stays warm and safe through the cold months. Call 804-548-4480 today to schedule your Precision tune-up or set up a complimentary in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating system.