5 Key Questions to Ask When Preparing HVAC Systems for Winter

By Brian Sodoma, for Service Experts

With autumn around the corner, homeowners will soon be getting ready for the cold months ahead. Cold weather puts additional demand on your heating system. To prepare your heating unit for the heavy work it will need to do, scheduled HVAC maintenance should be on your fall checklist. It’s crucial for your system to operate efficiently in order to reduce the risk of repairs at an undesirable or unsafe time, such as during a storm. Here, a skilled professional from Service Experts shares five questions to ask yourself to see if you’re ready.

1. When Should I Schedule My Furnace Tune-Up?

When the cold sets in, many businesses give preference to repairs over maintenance calls. Getting your HVAC system tune-up done before the first bite of winter cold assures that it will be ready for the season. It’s also important to look for a contractor with workers who are qualified technicians, said Mike Carson, manager of technical training and field operations support at Service Experts. To further evaluate a contractor, ask what’s included in their tune-up. Here are a few must-haves:

• Cleaning burners and ignition components
• Testing safeties
• Inspecting the heat exchanger
• Cleaning and flushing drain lines
• Looking at air filters
• Testing thermostats

2. When Was the Last Time I Changed My Air Filters?

Summer can get hectic, which means it’s easy to forget to swap out your furnace’s air filter. Filters trap dust, pet hair and other airborne irritants, so exchanging a dirty filter with a clean one increases your system’s operational efficiency and elevates indoor air quality.

“When you don’t replace the filter, the system needs to work harder to pull in air, which can lead to early failure,” Carson explained. “Some homeowners will choose a cheap fiberglass filter. They’re less expensive, but pleated filters trap more dust and particles. On the other hand, some can be too thick and restrictive. During your tune-up, ask the technician to suggest which filter is best for your system.”

3. Is My Thermostat Ready for Winter?

Your thermostat is the brain of your HVAC system. You’ll want to make sure it’s in proper running order by switching it from cool to heat mode, setting your heating setpoints, checking your schedule on a programmable thermostat and replacing the batteries if they are drained. At this point, you’ll want to turn it on and listen for any unusual noises or indications the system is struggling to engage.

If the furnace is older, a smart thermostat is a practical investment. It can save you up to 20% on each year’s energy bill. While a programmable thermostat modifies settings according to the time of day, a smart thermostat also considers your behavior. Most models can be connected to your smartphone so that changes can be made even if you are away. For increased safety, more sophisticated designs may be connected to smoke alarms and follow voice commands, in addition to other useful features.

“A smart thermostat is an inexpensive, but powerful intuitive device for your home,” Carson remarked. “The learning curve will be long forgotten once you start enjoying the convenience and energy savings it offers.”

4. Do I Have Any Air Leaks?

Examining your doors and windows for air leaks before the winter weather arrives can save you a lot of stress later. Not only can it cause drafts, making your living space chilly in the winter or warm in the summer, but the cold air can also lower the temperature in your home, forcing your HVAC system to work harder and increase your energy costs.

If you find an air leak in the fall, you can take preventative actions before winter hits, like:

• Replacing old weatherstripping to make sure doors and windows are completely sealed.
• Re-caulking any cracks.
• Closing the fireplace damper when you aren’t using it.

“Avoiding wintertime HVAC issues starts months before winter even begins,” noted Carson. “Take the time now to make sure your home is ready so you’re not paying for it later.”

5. Is the Insulation in My Home Ready for Winter?

About 90% of U.S. homes are under-insulated, according to the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association. That can have a big impact on your HVAC system, which will have to work harder to keep up during times of very hot or cold temperatures. Autumn is an ideal time to think about adding insulation, if you think your home needs additional protection from the elements. But what are the signs your residence needs more insulation?

“If your attic insulation is less than seven inches deep, it’s inadequate,” Carson explained. “Adding more will probably save you another 20% on your energy bill. Inconsistent room temperatures and drafts could also be signs of poor insulation. Services like blower door testing, home energy audits and infrared cameras can help determine where your home may need more insulation as well.”

To learn more about HVAC maintenance or to schedule a tune-up with Service Experts, visit https://www.serviceexperts.com/.