HVAC Maintenance Tips to Prepare for Winter

The weather outside is frightful, so your home better be delightful! 72% of American homes have heating systems that are at least five years old. 

But even an old HVAC system can work during this winter. The key is that you follow HVAC maintenance tips. Start by familiarizing yourself with a few steps you can take today. 

What temperature should you set on your thermostat? How should you clean your HVAC system? What can an HVAC technician do for you? 

Answer these questions and you can have a warm and wonderful winter. Here is your quick guide. 

Reprogram Your Thermostat

The first thing you should do before you use your HVAC in winter is to reprogram your thermostat. However, you should not set it too high. Programming your thermostat to a very high temperature will drive your energy bills up and exhaust your HVAC system.

When you're at home, you should program your thermostat to a temperature in the high 60s. When you're sleeping, you can turn your thermostat down slightly and wrap yourself in a blanket. If you're still feeling a little cold, you can wear a fleece jacket or a sweater. 

When you are out of your house, you should turn your HVAC system off. This will preserve energy and prevent parts of your HVAC system from breaking.

Replace Your Air Filters

Your air filters can get clogged within 30 days, especially if you have pets. You should replace your air filters at least once a month, always using identical replacements. 

Try to find an air filter with a MERV rating of 7. Filters with a high MERV rating can extract airborne dust and small contaminants, creating more breathable air during the winter. 

Unblock Your Vents

One reason why you may not feel the heat from your unit is that your vents are blocked. A piece of furniture or a rug can prevent warm air from circulating through your home. 

Go to each of your vents and pull out any furniture or rugs that are up against them. You should also vacuum them and remove any dust or cobwebs. Feel free to open the vents and perform  air duct maintenance. 

Talk to an HVAC Technician

These preventative HVAC maintenance steps can help if you have minor problems with your HVAC system. But if you think your system is broken or if you want a second opinion, you should call an HVAC technician soon.

They can evaluate your system and give you additional tips to keep your system working. Keep their contact information so you can give them a call if something breaks.

Follow HVAC Maintenance Tips

HVAC maintenance tips will help you keep warm this winter. Program your thermostat to a moderate setting and wear a sweater if you want to be warmer. 

Check your air filters every month and swap them out if they're filled with dust, hair, or debris. Clear a few feet of space around your vents so you can feel the warm air from your vents. If you're having difficulty maintaining your system, call an HVAC technician right away. 

Spotless ducts circulate the best air. Earth Friendly Air Duct Cleaning serves the Colorado Springs area. Request a cleaning quote today.