Winter is coming. (Cue Game of Thrones theme.) While you probably won’t have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still essential to make sure your home is all set for the cold. Here are some suggestions from McElroy 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 restricted and that air can flow easily into them. Your cold air returns are needed to help your heating equipment run efficiently.
Upgrade Your Windows
Windows are a common way that heat can seep out your home, so contemplate replacing old or inefficient windows to help trap heat inside during the winter months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With sick season nearing, you want to be sure you’re doing all you can to keep your family healthy. For the health of your indoor air, make sure you’re replacing your furnace or duct air filter every three months. This will also help your system run more efficiently and save you energy, which means decreasing your energy bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your heating equipment is older than ten years, it’s most likely not nearly as energy-efficient as updated heating systems. Before the cooler temperature hits and you’re stuck with a failing furnace or high heating bills, think about upgrading your system.
Buy a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not seem logical, but increased humidity, especially in northern climates, can cause your home’s air to feel warmer than it actually is. Add the other benefits of less dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier might be the ideal addition to your heat and air system.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
We can’t say it enough – a programmable thermostat decreases your energy use and bills no matter what time of year it is. A programmable thermostat will let you decrease your home temperature while you are away to help reduce heating costs, and raise the temperature before you even arrive home to provide the perfect amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the right amount of attic insulation helps retain heat during the winter, saving you energy because your heating system doesn’t have to work as hard, and therefore saves you money by decreasing your energy bills. Ask your local utility companies about rebates on installing or upgrading your home’s insulation.
Cover Plumbing
Insulating your hot water pipes can actually help boost the temperature a couple of degrees. Hot water on a cooler setting? That saves you energy and money – yes, please!
Get a Furnace Tune-Up
Verify your heating system is ready to keep your family warm and comfortable all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from McElroy . Right now we are giving discounts on our heating tune ups to help make sure your home stays warm and safe through the winter. Call 308-210-4398 today to schedule your Precision tune-up or set up a free in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system.