Winter is coming. (Cue Game of Thrones theme.) While you probably won’t have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still crucial to make sure your home is all set for the cold. Here are a few tips from Komfort Air Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Surrounding Air Returns
You don’t need cold air returns in the cooler months right? Wrong. Confirm your air returns (the more sizable vents) are not restricted and that air can easily flow through them. Your cold air returns are required to help your heating system run efficiently.
Upgrade Your Windows
Windows are a usual way that heat can get out of your home, so consider upgrading old or inefficient windows to help keep heat inside during the cold months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With allergy and cold season coming soon, you want to verify you’re doing everything you can to keep your family healthy. For the well-being of your indoor air, replace your furnace or duct air filter every few months. This will also help your equipment run more efficiently and save you energy, which means decreasing your utility bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your system is older than 12 years, it’s most likely not nearly as energy-efficient as newer heating systems. Before the winter hits and you’re stuck with a failing furnace or high utility 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, particularly in northern climates, can result in your home’s air feeling warmer than it is. Joined with the other benefits of decreasing dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier could be the ideal addition to your HVAC system.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – a programmable thermostat decreases your energy use and bills no matter what temperature 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 turn up the temperature before you even arrive home to yield the perfect 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, saving you energy because your heater doesn’t have to run as much, and therefore saves you money on heating bill. Ask your local utility companies about rebates for installing or upgrading your attic insulation.
Insulate Plumbing
Insulating your hot water pipes can actually help raise the temperature two or three degrees. Warmer water on a cooler setting? That decreases your energy usage and your energy bills – yes, please!
Get a Precision Tune-Up
Be sure your heater is ready to keep your home warm and cozy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Komfort Air . Currently we are providing discounts on our seasonal tune ups to help make sure your home stays warm and safe through the winter. Call 704-705-8135 today to schedule your Precision tune-up or set up a no-charge in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system.