Follow the steps in this article to prepare your HVAC system for winter.
Winter is on its way, so it's time to prepare your HVAC system for the colder months. Taking some time now to service your system and make any necessary repairs will help ensure that your system runs smoothly all winter long.
The experts at Red Cap Plumbing & Air have compiled a list of tips to help you get your HVAC system ready for winter to keep your system in tip-top shape and your family comfortable all season:
Our expert HVAC techs at Red Cap Plumbing & Air have helped thousands of Florida homeowners prevent their furnaces and heat pumps from breaking down during the winter with our heating system checks. We guarantee your system will not break down for the next 6 months.
They’ll be able to assess and clean your furnace or heat pump and provide repair recommendations in no time. Call us or schedule service online today.
Change your HVAC system’s air filter to prepare it for winter.
Your HVAC system's air filter is crucial in keeping your system running efficiently. Over time, air filters can become clogged with dust, pollen, and other debris, which can restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder than it needs to.
Depending on your air filter, you'll either need to clean it or replace it regularly. Some air filters can be rinsed with water and allowed to dry, while others are disposable. Check your filter's manufacturer recommendations to determine how often you should clean or replace it.
You can clean most reusable filters with a vacuum and warm, soapy water. Be sure to let the filter completely dry before putting it back in your HVAC system.
To change your air filter:
Regularly changing your air filter is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your system running smoothly and improve indoor air quality.
Like your car, your HVAC system needs regular checks to keep it running efficiently. As temperatures drop, schedule a professional inspection and check for your system. This will help identify potential problems, so a technician can fix them before they cause your system to break down in the middle of winter.
During a system check, a technician will clean your system, inspect the parts, and make necessary repairs to improve efficiency and prevent costly breakdowns.
Getting a system check before winter starts will help ensure that it’s ready to work hard when the temperature drops.
Heating maintenance makes your HVAC system run better.
In addition to preventing breakdowns, regular heating maintenance can improve the efficiency of your system. When your system runs efficiently, it doesn't have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home, saving you money on your energy bills.
Regular maintenance can also help extend the lifespan of your heating system. By keeping your system well-maintained, you can avoid the need for costly repairs or replacements down the road. You can enjoy peace of mind all season long by taking care of your system.
Check that your thermostat is set to the right mode.
During the winter, you'll want to ensure your thermostat is set to "heat" mode and the temperature is set to a comfortable level. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, you can also take advantage of energy-saving features. For example, you can set the temperature to drop when everyone is out of the house during the day and then turn it back up an hour or so before everyone comes home. Smart thermostats will automatically adjust based on your living habits and geographic location.
Now might be a good time to upgrade if you don't have a programmable or smart thermostat. It can save you money on your energy bill by allowing you to set different temperatures for different times of the day and days of the week.
Leaky ductwork can cause your HVAC system to perform poorly.
If your home has central heating and cooling, chances are it also has ductwork that carries the conditioned air throughout your home. Over time, ductwork can become damaged or disconnected, causing your system to work harder than it needs to.
Before winter arrives, take the time to inspect your ductwork and make sure it is in good condition. If you notice any damage or disconnections, be sure to have them repaired by a professional before turning on your heat for the season.
Your home's vents and registers play an important role in the efficiency of your HVAC system. If they are blocked by furniture or other objects, it can prevent air from flowing freely and cause your system to work harder than it needs to.
In addition to checking your ductwork, be sure that your vents and registers are open and unobstructed. This will help ensure that your system can operate efficiently and avoid costly breakdowns.
Preparing your HVAC system for winter doesn't have to be daunting. You can enjoy peace of mind all season long by taking some time to perform simple maintenance tasks and ensure your system runs efficiently.
Contact Red Cap for reliable HVAC technicians and heating system checks.
If you have any questions about preparing your HVAC system for winter or need to schedule a system check, be sure to contact a qualified Red Cap HVAC professional for top-of-the-line service that treats you like family. Tampa and Pinellas homeowners rely on our experienced technicians for efficient and reliable service. In fact, we guarantee reliable service.
We guarantee that your heat pump or furnace won't break down for the next 6 months—or we'll credit the cost of the system check to your repair.
Call us to schedule 5-star service.