Tips to Prepare Your HVAC System for Winter

Winter will be here before we know it, and with the upcoming cold weather, you will want to make sure that your HVAC unit is ready for the heat to kick on when you need it to. Most of the preparations that need to be done are very easy and only take a couple of minutes, but Wulf Brothers wants you to know just what you should be doing to make sure that your HVAC system is ready for the upcoming winter season.

1. Change Out Your Air Filter

Air filters need to be changed out frequently, and one of the best ways to set your HVAC system up for winter is to get a new air filter put in. Dirty air filters not only reduce the air quality in your home, but they also create blockages in your system, which can prevent air from getting into your home. To make sure that you aren’t overspending on your energy bills this fall and winter, put a clean air filter in your system. Check the filter every month and change it out as necessary.

2. Check for Air Leaks

If you have leaks in your ductwork, windows, or doors, your HVAC system can’t work efficiently. Drafts in your home are a sign that there are leaks in your system. Make sure all of your windows and doors are properly sealed with caulk and weather-stripping. You can also fix leaky ductwork with mastic or aluminum tape. An HVAC technician can also help you make sure that your ductwork is properly sealed and not leaking any air.

3. Clean the Outdoor Unit

Outdoor units often collect debris from outside. Make sure there are no leaves or any other unwanted items lodged in the unit. You might need to do a little deep cleaning on the unit to make sure that there is nothing hidden inside the vents and fans.

While you are cleaning the unit, be sure to check for any damage. Since it sits outside, your unit is subjected to the elements, which could lead to some damage to the outdoor unit. If you notice any damage, contact a service technician to have the unit checked out. What seems like just cosmetic damage may actually affect how the system runs. Also, you may consider covering your outdoor air conditioner unit with a protective cover to prevent cold weather damage.

Once you’ve made sure no obstructions are blocking your system and your AC unit is sufficiently protected and powered down for the season, it’s time to head inside and take care of the rest!

4. DIY Indoor HVAC System Care

As you prepare your home for the heating season:

• Ensure all combustible items are stored far away from your heating system.
• Inspect and replace air filters as needed.
• Clear your registers of any blockages or obstructions, moving any heavy furniture out of the way that might prevent sufficient airflow.
• Change your humidifier’s water panel.

5. Make Sure Alarms and Detectors Are Working

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are important items in your home. Make sure that they are functioning properly and have fresh batteries. If your smoke detector is more than ten years old, it is time to replace it with a new one. To find out how old your detectors are, you can check the manufacture date on the back. All alarms and detectors should be tested before the start of the fall season.

These preventative measures will help you have a more comfortable heating season ahead, addressing everything from airflow and dry air problems to carbon monoxide exposure prevention. However, these DIY heating and cooling maintenance tips should never be used as a substitute for professional HVAC maintenance services.

 Schedule a Maintenance Check

The very best thing you can do to prepare your HVAC unit for fall is to have an HVAC technician come out for a maintenance check to make sure your equipment is operating as it should be. During a maintenance check, the technician can all make any necessary adjustments to the unit.

Schedule your maintenance check today at Wulf Brothers. At your door when you need us: 800-743-5587