Winter can be a tough time of year for your appliances. During the wintertime, your HVAC system is working hard to keep your family warm. If you value the longevity of your unit, winter preparation should become a seasonal habit. Winterizing your unit can save you money and help you avoid a winter emergency during extreme temperatures. Learn how you can winterize your HVAC unit and why it’s important.
Why HVAC Systems Fail During The Winter
Image via Flickr by Forest Service Photography
The significantly cooler temperatures can cause your heating system to go out prematurely during the winter. Your heating unit is working overtime to keep your family warm in the winter. Many people spend more time indoors during the winter, causing your heating to run more frequently than your cooling system. More importantly, when you fail to get maintenance, your HVAC unit will suffer and cause a system failure.
How To Prepare Your HVAC System For The Winter
It’s important to constantly have your HVAC unit checked by a professional. They understand what components need to be examined to ensure your equipment is prepared for the winter. Having a professional look over your heating components will save you money on future expenses.
Clean Your Air Ducts
Cleaning your air ducts helps avoid constricting the heat coming from your HVAC unit. Unkept air ducts or a dirty filter can cause your system to pull harder and could damage many mechanical parts. Cleaning air ducts will also help homeowners avoid those musty odors that accumulate from dirty air ducts. A certified, trusted HVAC company will provide excellent same day services for emergency maintenance and repairs. A professional understands that cleaning the air ducts can do a great job of keeping the kids healthy and avoid bad indoor air pollutants.
Install Additional Insulation Systems
Not having the proper heating insulation can cause your home to lose 25% more energy. Insulation is very important during the winter months. Consumers should also ensure they have good, insulated air ducts. The extra wear and tear from an overworked heating system can cause them to break down. The experts suggest customers to always have properly sealed air ducts.
Hire a Professional
Hiring a professional is always a great way of getting your HVAC unit ready for the winter. They have the expertise to assess and make repairs or replace parts in your unit. Preventative maintenance provides you an opportunity to catch malfunctions before they occur, become worse, or cause you to have to replace your unit.
The best way to prolong the life of your HVAC unit is by getting routine maintenance every six months. Most people believe it’s best to have their heating unit replaced just before the winter, but having it repaired during the off-peak season can have you well prepared for the winter and save you money.
If you still have questions about how to prepare your HVAC system for the cold weather, contact your local area professionals today. Don’t get stuck out in the cold this winter!