As the cold weather sets in, it’s important to make sure your HVAC system is up to the task of keeping your home comfortable. As your Colorado Springs air duct cleaner, Planet Duct is here to offer our top tips for keeping your furnace running smoothly and efficiently. And yes, some of them have to do with your air ducts. Here are eight HVAC tips for winter to help you get the most out of your system:
1. Schedule a furnace tune-up.
Just like your car, your HVAC system needs regular maintenance to run its best. Schedule a tune-up with your heating contractor before winter hits to ensure everything is in good working order. This will help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and repairs down the road. A furnace tune-up includes several important steps, such as:
– Checking the furnace’s filters and replacing them if necessary
– Cleaning the blower assembly
– Checking the ignition system
– Inspecting the heat exchanger
– Testing the safety controls
– Adjusting the furnace burners as needed
2. Change your furnace air filter.
A furnace air filter is essential for keeping your furnace running efficiently. It helps to prevent dust and dirt from building up in the furnace and can improve the overall performance of the system. Furnace filters should be replaced every 1-3 months. Possibly more often if you live with pets or someone in your family has allergies. Even if you haven’t been running your furnace consistently, filters can still get dusty and dirty, affecting your indoor air quality.
3. Keep the area around your furnace clear.
Your furnace needs adequate airflow to function properly, so make sure the area around it is clear of debris and other objects. This includes keeping the area around the outdoor unit of your central air conditioner clear as well. If your furnace is located in the basement, check to make sure there is nothing blocking the vents that lead to the rest of your home.
4. Check for leaks and drafts, including in your ductwork.
One of the biggest culprits of wasted energy in the winter is heat loss due to leaks and drafts. Taking the time to seal up any cracks or gaps around doors and windows can make a big difference in your energy bill. You may also want to consider investing in weatherstripping or caulking to further improve the seal around doors and windows.
Leaks in your air duct system can result in heat being pumped into spaces behind your walls and in your attic. When this happens, you’ll need to run your furnace longer to bring your living areas up to a comfortable temperature. For best results, hire an HVAC professional to install a duct lining.
5. Invest in a programmable thermostat.
A programmable thermostat can help you save money on your energy bill by allowing you to set different temperatures for different times of the day. For example, you can set the temperature to be lower when you’re away at work or asleep and raise it to a comfortable level when you’re home. Energy.gov recommends an indoor temperature of 68 degrees when you’re home and lowering it from there.
6. Clean your air vents.
Your air vents play a crucial role in the efficiency of your HVAC system. When they’re blocked by furniture or debris, it can make it harder for your furnace to do its job. Take the time to vacuum or dust around your vents. If you notice a build-up of dust or debris near your vents, it may be time to schedule a professional air duct cleaning. Debris in your ducts can negatively affect your indoor air quality and prevent your home from being heated evenly.
7. Use your ceiling fans.
Most people think of ceiling fans as something to use in the summer, but they can actually be quite helpful in the winter as well. Running your ceiling fan in reverse mode will push warm air near the ceiling down into your living space. This simple trick can help you feel more comfortable without cranking up the thermostat.
8. Cover your outdoor AC unit.
You may not be using your air conditioner in the winter, but that doesn’t mean you can just neglect it. Be sure to cover your outdoor unit to protect it from the elements. A simple tarp or piece of plywood will do the trick. Then, schedule an AC coil cleaning before running your system in spring to prevent dirt and debris from bogging down your system.
Do You Need to Schedule a Winter Duct Cleaning with Planet Duct?
If you noticed build-up around your air vents or leaky ducts while completing this winter HVAC tips, schedule an appointment with Planet Duct. We’ll ensure your ductwork is free of clogs and allergens with comprehensive duct cleaning, so you can stay warm and breathe easy this winter. We can also check your ductwork for leaks or other maintenance concerns. If you do need duct sealing, we have two high-quality products available to increase your home’s efficiency. Contact us today!
