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 planning for the winter weather ahead. Cold weather places additional demand on your HVAC system. To prepare your furnace for the heavy work it will need to do, regular HVAC maintenance should be on your fall chore list. It’s vital for your system to perform efficiently in order to reduce the likelihood of repairs at an undesirable or unsafe time, such as during a storm. Here, a skilled technician from Service Experts shares five questions to ask when considering furnace maintenance.

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

When the cold weather arrives, many companies prioritize repairs over maintenance appointments. Getting your HVAC system tune-up done before the first bite of winter cold assures that you’ll have your system ready for the season. It’s also beneficial to look for a contractor who employs qualified technicians, said Mike Carson, manager of technical training and field operations support at Service Experts. To further check into 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 heating and cooling system’s air filter. Filters catch dust, pet hair and other airborne debris, so replacing a dirty filter with a clean one improves your system’s operational efficiency and boosts 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 control center for your HVAC system. It’s a good idea 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 necessary. Now, you should turn it on and listen for any unusual noises or clues the system is struggling to turn on.

If your equipment is getting older, a smart thermostat is a valuable investment. It can save you up to 20% annually on your energy bill. Although a programmable thermostat changes settings dependent on the time of day, a smart thermostat also takes into account your behavior. Most brands can be paired with your smartphone so that modifications can be made remotely. For increased safety, more sophisticated models may be joined with your smoke alarms and follow voice commands, in addition to other convenient features.

“A smart thermostat is an inexpensive, but powerful intuitive device for your home,” Carson said. “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?

Checking your doors and windows for air leaks before the winter weather sets in can save you a hassle later. Not only could leaks 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 heating system to work harder and increase your energy expenses.

If you detect an air leak ahead of time, you can take preventative steps before winter approaches, including:

• Replacing old weatherstripping to ensure 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?

Around 90% of U.S. residences don’t have enough insulation, according to the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association. That can have a big impact on your HVAC system, which will need to work harder to keep up during times of extreme temperatures. Autumn is an outstanding time to consider adding insulation, if you think your home needs it. But what are the signs your residence needs more insulation?

“If your attic insulation is less than seven inches deep, it’s inadequate,” Carson said. “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/.