Winter is coming. (Signal Game of Thrones music.) While you may not have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still crucial to make sure your home is good to go for the cold. Here are some tips from Levy & Son Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Surrounding Air Returns
You won’t need cold air returns in the winter right? Wrong. Verify your air returns (the larger vents) are not blocked and that air can flow smoothly through them. Your cold air returns are necessary to help your furnace run efficiently.
Replace Your Windows
Windows are a usual way that heat can get out of your home, so think about replacing old or inefficient windows to help retain heat inside during the cold months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With allergy and cold season quickly approaching, you want to make sure you’re doing all you can to keep your family from falling ill. For the well-being of your indoor air, replace your furnace or duct air filter every 12 weeks. This will also help your equipment run more efficiently and save you energy, which means saving you money on heating bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your heating equipment is older than 12 years, it’s almost certainly not nearly as energy-efficient as updated heating systems. Before the cooler temperature hits and you’re stuck with a malfunctioning furnace or high heating bills, consider upgrading your system.
Purchase a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not make sense when you hear it, but more humidity, more so in northern climates, can result in your home’s air feeling warmer than it is. Include the other benefits of reducing dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier could be the ideal addition to your heating system.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – a programmable thermostat saves you energy and money no matter what temperature it is. A programmable thermostat will let you lower your home temperature while you are away to help lower heating costs, and raise the temperature before you even make it home to provide the right amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the right amount of attic insulation helps trap heat in your home during the winter, decreasing your energy usage because your heater doesn’t have to run as much, and therefore saves you money on heating bill. Inquire with your local utility companies about rebates for upgrading or installing your attic insulation.
Cover Plumbing
Insulating your hot water pipes can actually help raise the temperature two or three degrees. Hot water on a cooler setting? That decreases your energy usage and your energy bills – yes, please!
Get a Furnace Tune-Up
Be sure your heating system is ready to keep you warm and cozy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Levy & Son . This month we are giving discounts on our fall tune ups to help make sure you stay warm and safe through the cold months. Call 469-250-0932 today to schedule your seasonal tune-up or set up a complimentary in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system.