7 Steps To Prep Your Heating/Cooling System for Winter

What’s your favorite thing to do on cold winter mornings? Many people picture themselves cozy on the couch sipping a mug of something warm, looking out the window at a frosty landscape. Winter will be here before you know it, and performing HVAC maintenance now will let you sit back and enjoy those cold weather days. Is your HVAC ready for winter? Here are 7 steps to prepare your heating and cooling system for winter weather:

Step 1. Change your Air Filters

Your air conditioner worked hard all summer to keep you cool. White it ran, all sorts of pet hair, dust and other debris got caught in the filter.

Dirty filters make the system work harder to keep things at a comfortable temperature. Change your air filters at least every three months to help prevent maintenance problems and keep utility bills down.

Step 2. Check for Moisture

There shouldn’t be condensation on your windows or vent pipe. Look for these signs of moisture buildup:

  • Bubbling or chipping paint on window sills
  • Mold or mildew on windows or other wood trim
  • Rust around vent pipes

If you see signs of moisture, your system may not be operating properly. Call an expert for an assessment.

Step 3. Test your Thermostat

If you haven’t turned your heat on in several months, it’s a good idea to test it before it gets cold. If you have an older system you might need to relight the pilot. As soon as the temperature begins to dip in the fall, switch your unit to heat and see how long it takes to reach the desired temperature.

Step 4. Install a Programmable Thermostat

Smart thermostats save you money. In the past, you had to run your heat all day if you wanted to return to a comfortable home. With a programmable thermostat from Northern Heating & Air, you set your unit to run less during hours when no one is home and warm things up in time for you when you get back. Many brands allow you to access your thermostat through your cell phone or other mobile device.

Step 5. Clean Away Debris

Vacuum dust and other debris form around your furnace blower. Check your return air vents and fresh air supply. Sometimes during warm months family members move furniture or other materials in front of them where they can’t get enough air. Make sure there’s plenty of room for your system to operate efficiently.

Step 6. Listen for Strange Noises

When you run your heat, listen for thumps, bumps and squeals that weren’t there before. Unusual sounds may indicate a problem that needs to be checked out by a professional. It’s always best to get it taken care of before the cold weather hits.

Step 7. Schedule Professional Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps your heating and air conditioning last longer and run more efficiently. An experienced Northern Heating and Air technician can isolate leaks, tighten connections that have loosened during use, lubricate moving parts and check to make sure your gas is ventilated properly.

Is your furnace or HVAC ready for cold weather? Call us today at (518) 745-0401 for assistance with your furnace and seasonal HVAC maintenance, and learn more about our Home Comfort Plan! The skilled technicians at Northern Heating and Air provide HVAC services in Warren, Washington and Northern Saratoga Counties in Upstate NY. Prevent unexpected breakdowns by scheduling your winter maintenance today.

Yes, I want to schedule my appointment today!

You may also like: