Feeling a little chilly in the evenings? Starting to bundle up? The days may still be warm here on the Western Slope, but we all know how quickly it cools off once the sun goes down. Winter will be here before you know it, and you may be tempted to simply flick on the thermostat and be done, but not so fast: in order to stay warm this season, you’ll want to be sure your home heating system is up to task. No one wants to wake up to a non-functioning furnace in the dead of winter, much less during an inversion (which make the Grand Valley super cold!) In order to stay warm this season, you’ll want to:
Have your furnace filter replaced. This should be done monthly, and if you haven’t, now is the time to do so. A dirty filter hurts the efficiency of your furnace, as your furnace has to work much harder to pump warm air around your residence. Clean filter = functioning furnace.
Keep the area around your furnace clear. Besides being a safety standpoint (you don’t want anything catching on fire), keeping your furnace area clutter free also ensures the functionality of your furnace. If airflow is restricted, then your furnace will not work as smoothly.
Check and Clean Air Vents: If your air vents are lodged with dust, airflow in your residence will suffer. Check and clean all air vents throughout your house.
Shut down your AC. You don’t want your AC suddenly turning on in the middle of winter: this spells disaster for your AC system and unit. Water and snow accumulation can damage your AC beyond repair, necessitating a replacement. Instead, shut off your AC system completely via the AC breaker switch outside, then cover the condenser (outside unit) to keep moisture out.
Test your thermostat: Set your thermostat to “Heat” and wait for the tell-tale click of the unit turning on. Run the heat for several minutes, and warm air should circulate. Not the case? Give us a call and we’ll check out the problem.
Bleed Radiators: Have old water radiators in your home? Ensure your water radiators work by ridding of trapped air inside the fins. Turn on the heat, as this will aid in the process of pushing out air. Depending on valve type, use a flat screwdriver or radiator key and slowly twist counterclockwise. When water drips out, the air is released, allowing hot water into the fins. Be sure to have a rag handy to catch any drips.
Have Any Questions? Need Help Winterizing? Give Us a Call!
Schedule an HVAC inspection with us: Regular maintenance will ensure your HVAC system runs smoothly, no matter the season. Big plus: a properly working HVAC system is cost efficient. When your heating system does what it is supposed to do, you save money. Call us today to schedule regular inspections before your heating system gives you problems. We are here and happy to help you get your house cozy for winter.
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