11 HVAC Maintenance Tips & Tricks for This Winter

HVAC Maintenance Tips & Tricks For This Winter

Winters can be harsh and unbearably cold with little relief from mother nature, yet they can also be stunning in their bareness. With the cold season around the corner, the demand for heating rises, as do its issues. Here are some of the most important HVAC tips for winter.

1. Remember to Replace the Filters

Over time, the air filter will get clogged, which becomes a particular issue when there is a lot of dust outdoors. The air filter will collect dust, dirt, and other particles that must be removed before it can function properly again. The daily buildup of these particles will cause your air conditioner to work considerably harder, which in turn will drive your energy bill much higher.

2. Schedule Maintenance Promptly

A routine winter HVAC maintenance check can detect issues before they become unmanageable and can even reduce the amount you spend on your monthly energy bill. Taking care of your system will help it last longer and keep it in good shape.

3. Keep the Unit Clean

Debris such as leaves, grass, dirt, and even branches can make their way into your heating system. This may result in a range of expensive issues, the worst of which is a complete appliance breakdown.

4. Never Shut the Air Vents

Contrary to what most people believe, shutting off the air vents will not help you save money on your energy bill. The substantial increase in pressure load makes it one of the worst things you can do to your heating and air conditioning equipment. By closing the vents, you not only prevent the flow of cold air but also significantly reduce the performance of the unit.

5. Set the Right Temperature

The temperature you set on the thermostat will primarily depend on how comfortable you want to be; nevertheless, most systems have a certain temperature range in which they operate most effectively and with the least wasteful energy use. You may be able to find this range in the appliance’s handbook, or you could ask your service professional to help you identify the most energy-efficient setting.

6. Protect the Exterior Unit

If you expect snow or ice, you may want to build a cover for your outside unit. You shouldn’t completely cover your unit, however, as doing so could trap moisture and cause corrosion. The goal is to protect the fan while keeping the unit from being shut off entirely. If the fan freezes, the device won’t be able to function as intended — it will keep attempting to start up until it finally gives out. A canopy-like structure can protect your outdoor unit from harsh winter weather.

7. Proper Insulation Equals Optimum Performance

Regardless of the season, make sure your home has a reliable weather seal by keeping all doors and windows closed and ensuring solid weatherproofing around the perimeter of the house. You may also want to consider installing newer, more energy-efficient windows and doors so that you don’t lose heated or cooled air through them.

8. Air Ducts Are Crucial

Air ducts can start to leak, which may result in significant financial losses. In fact, leaking ductwork can increase costs by up to thirty percent, according to Energy Star. This means the price of your electricity will increase by an additional thirty cents for every dollar you spend.

9. Keep Clearance Around the Unit

Remove any obstructions and prune any branches from shrubs or trees located close to the outside unit. The standard clearance that should be maintained around your air conditioning unit is approximately 12 inches. Keeping the area around your unit clear will help it last as long as possible and prevent other complex problems from arising.

10. Observe the Flame

To make sure your furnace is working properly, check that the flame has a bright blue hue. A blue flame indicates that the combustion process is running correctly. If you see long yellow or orange streaks, that is a sign you need to have it serviced by a qualified HVAC professional.

11. Ensure the CO Detector Always Works

A carbon monoxide detector is a vital piece of safety equipment for homes that have combustion-based heating systems, such as those that use natural gas or fuel oil. If there is a leak in the exhaust system, inadequate ventilation, excessive gas flow, or another problem, the CO alarm could save your life. Carbon monoxide detectors should be checked once a month as part of HVAC winter maintenance to confirm they are working properly and replaced immediately if needed.

Autumn Air Heating & Cooling Is Just a Call Away

Maintaining a functional HVAC system requires careful care and servicing. The HVAC tips for winter provided in this article will help you keep your system in top-notch condition. However, if you have any major problems or if the situation is too big to tackle on your own, don’t hesitate to call Autumn Air Heating & Cooling, a reputable HVAC company with years of experience. Call us at (602) 266-5247">(602) 266-5247 or schedule your service online.