We are lucky in South Carolina to enjoy fairly mild winters. It’s far better to get a little frost than to spend winter in Maine! Even the Southeast doesn’t usually get lots of snow, it’s still smart to prepare for winter to make sure you – and your family – are comfortable inside. Here are some easy steps to follow to prepare your HVAC system for the coming months.
Change Your Air Filter
If it seems like we are always talking about air filters – it’s because changing your air filter is one of the simplest, most cost-effective, and important things you can do to maintain your furnace. When you change the air filter regularly, you are keeping contaminants from re-filtering through your home and you allow the HVAC system to work more efficiently as it doesn’t have to push air through a clogged filter. Operationally, it’s one of the most important parts of your system!
You can order filters online and have them delivered to your door. This way, you always have the right size filter and you never forget to change it!
Clean your HVAC Registers
Make a note to clean your registers (or grills) in the fall as you prepare for winter. You probably have HVAC registers on the floor or walls of your home. Over time, they can get clogged with dust, dirt, allergens, and other contaminants. Take the grate off, wipe it down, and wipe around the area to make sure your indoor air is clean.
Also, see if the registers open/close, and are not blocked by furniture. If you have a heavy couch or other furniture on top of your register, the air will not be able to flow freely through your home. This will lessen the effectiveness of your furnace.
Seal Drafts
Have you been sitting in your cozy living room and felt a draft from a nearby window? Brrrr. Drafts allow cold air to enter your home, which can be uncomfortable, makes your furnace work harder, and wastes energy! Save energy and money by sealing drafts before winter.
Look at replacing weatherstripping around doors, closing the fireplace flue, and sealing windows. This can have a big effect on your energy bill and the comfort of your home.
Clear Outdoor Units
Is your HVAC system outside? If so, it’s smart to check your unit for overgrown plants, damage, and any debris before winter. There may be plants growing into the system or leaves stuck to the grills. By clearing around the outdoor unit, you allow the system to work to optimal capacity.
Have Your Furnace Inspected by a Professional
Regular maintenance of your HVAC system helps ensure that it is running smoothly and efficiently. Call PECO for a maintenance inspection before you encounter issues with your furnace. You don’t want to try to turn on your heater one night and realize that it’s broken!
A trained HVAC professional can help inspect the various components of your system, clean the condenser coil, test the system, and provide tips on how to keep warm this winter. Contact PECO to schedule your appointment today!
