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Proper heating is important in a state like Michigan, where winter temperatures can dip into the teens. It’s a sharp contrast to the summer temperatures that can reach into the 80s. Knowing which steps to take can help you easily transition your home from cooling to heating, making a significant difference in your comfort, safety, and budget.
Change Air Filters
Changing your air filter is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It’s ideal to do it monthly, especially if you have pets in the home, as their fur and dander can contribute to a clogged filter. Foregoing this task can lead to significant issues for your HVAC system, as it can reduce airflow, strain and overheat your system, and increase your utility bills. Constant strain over a long period can shorten your system’s lifespan.
Schedule an HVAC Inspection
It’s best to schedule an HVAC tune-up during spring and fall, right before crucial cooling and heating seasons. September is an ideal time as summer transitions to fall and cooler temperatures begin to approach.
Our HVAC technicians will perform various tasks during the HVAC tune-up, including assessing the electrical wires for damage, checking the thermostat, testing the system, and cleaning the internal components. The appointment typically takes a few hours or less, and we’ll inform you at the end if any repairs are required. We recommend addressing the repairs as soon as possible so your system is ready to provide heating when the weather turns chilly.
Check for Door and Window Drafts
If you can’t currently replace worn or damaged windows and doors, your best option is to reduce the drafts. Drafts from doors and windows can cause your heating system to work harder than necessary. The gaps allow the cold air to waft in and the heated air to escape. Applying weatherstripping tape around doors and windows is an effective and inexpensive way to keep the cold air out.
An under-door draft blocker can prevent drafts from creeping in. If you have a slight gap under your door, it can also prevent snow from sneaking underneath. It’s particularly useful considering Michigan typically receives several feet of snow annually, with amounts varying depending on location. You can use it under all your exterior doors to maximize your comfort.
Insulate Your Windows
Add extra insulation to your windows by applying window film. It reduces heat loss and improves energy efficiency, giving your HVAC system a helping hand in keeping your home warm and comfortable throughout winter. It can take some time to apply it just right, but the benefits can be worth it.
Prepare Your Ceiling Fans
Dust off your ceiling fans to prepare for winter, as the edges of the blades tend to attract floating particles. Set your fan to rotate clockwise to help circulate warm air throughout the room.
Winterize Your Outdoor Unit
Although outdoor HVAC units are built to withstand the elements, it’s still helpful to winterize them at the end of fall before the first snowfall. Pull any vegetation away from it, giving it at least a few feet of clearance. You can also cover it with an HVAC unit cover to prevent snow, leaves, dead bugs, and branches from falling inside.
Check Vents and Registers
Check every vent and register in your home to make sure nothing, such as furniture or drapes, is blocking them. Leave several feet of clearance for safety purposes and to ensure proper airflow.
Pull Out Warm Blankets
Using thick, warm blankets instead of thin ones can help you stay comfortable while keeping your indoor temperature at a minimum and your utility bills as low as possible. Your HVAC system won’t have to run as long, and you won’t have to sacrifice comfort.
Replace and Stock Up on Batteries
Before winter, replace the battery in your thermostat with a new one, especially if it hasn’t been replaced in a while. You should typically change it annually.
Additionally, if your carbon monoxide detector doesn’t contain a 10-year, long-life lithium battery, consider replacing its batteries as well. This is particularly important if you have a gas furnace, as carbon monoxide leaks are a potential risk during winter. It’s also a good idea to keep extra batteries on hand in case you need them.
Get a Plumbing Inspection
Wondering what a plumbing inspection has to do with your HVAC system and staying warm in winter? Plumbing pipes are at risk for bursting when temperatures drop below freezing, especially if they already have cracks or hidden damage.
If a pipe bursts near your furnace, heat pump, boiler, or other heating equipment, the water can cause significant damage or lead to a system breakdown by short-circuiting electrical components. This could leave you without heat during the coldest time of the year and result in costly repairs or replacements. Scheduling a plumbing inspection during the fall can ensure your pipes are in good shape and your heating system is protected before winter.
Clean Around the Heating Equipment
Keep items at least a few feet away from your heating equipment. This includes furniture, clothing, boxes, hazardous materials, home decor, holiday decor, and anything else. It creates a serious fire hazard and can obstruct the flow of heated air, preventing your home from being properly warmed.
Install a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is an easy way to reduce energy waste, save money on heating bills, and lower your carbon footprint. You can control the thermostat from almost anywhere through your smartphone app. For example, you can lower the temperature before you leave home and raise it again when you’re on your way back, so your space is warm and comfortable when you return. Additionally, it’s great for homeowners who sometimes forget to lower the thermostat’s temperature before going out for an extended time.
Switch From Curtains to Drapes
Thin, lightweight curtains are ideal for summer’s hot temperatures. As winter approaches, it’s a good idea to replace your curtains with heavier drapes. They help insulate windows, improve energy efficiency, and help prevent heat from escaping. Drapes are also a great way to revamp your home’s style for the end of the year.
Get a Chimney Inspection
A fireplace adds beauty and warmth to your home and can even give your HVAC system a break. However, its chimney requires regular maintenance, especially in the autumn, right before the peak usage season begins. A professional chimney inspector can remove built-up creosote and clear blockages, reducing the risk of fires and carbon monoxide exposure.
Put Down Area Rugs
Area rugs don’t just add style to your home; they also help retain heat, especially if you have tile, wood, or laminate flooring. They provide extra insulation, helping to keep rooms warmer. The rugs are particularly useful in bedrooms and living rooms, adding a cozy appearance and comfortable warmth underfoot.
Stay warm, safe, and comfortable during winter. Service Professor in Kalamazoo offers comprehensive heating services, including furnace inspections and thermostat installations. Contact us today to schedule a fall appointment!
