Winter is coming. (Cue Game of Thrones intro.) While you probably won’t have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still critical to make sure your home is ready for the cold. Here are a couple tips from Strand Brothers Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Around Air Returns
You won’t need cold air returns in the winter right? Wrong. Confirm your air returns (the larger vents) are not restricted and that air can flow easily into them. Your cold air returns are necessary to help your furnace run efficiently.
Update Your Windows
Windows are a usual way that heat can leak out your home, so consider replacing old or inefficient windows to help keep heat inside during the cooler months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With cold and flu season coming soon, you want to be sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your family healthy. For the well-being of your indoor air, replace your furnace or duct air filter every 12 weeks. This will also help your system run more efficiently and save you energy, which means decreasing your utility bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your system is older than ten years, it’s almost certainly not nearly as energy-efficient as upgraded furnaces. Before the winter hits and you’re stuck with a failing furnace or high utility bills, consider replacing your system.
Purchase a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not make sense when you hear it, but higher humidity, especially in northern climates, can make your home’s air feel warmer than it is. Include the other benefits of decreasing dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier could be the perfect addition to your heating system.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
We can’t say it enough – a programmable thermostat saves you energy and money no matter what time of year it is. A programmable thermostat will allow you to lower your home temperature while you are out to help decrease heating costs, and increase the temperature before you even get home to yield the perfect amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the correct amount of attic insulation helps keep heat from escaping during the winter, decreasing your energy usage because your heater doesn’t have to operate as much, and therefore saves you money on heating bill. Ask your local utility companies about rebates on installing or upgrading your home’s insulation.
Insulate Plumbing
Insulating your hot water pipes can actually help raise the temperature a few degrees. Warmer water on a lower setting? That lowers your energy use and bills – yes, please!
Get a Heating Tune-Up
Be sure your heating system is ready to keep you warm and comfy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Strand Brothers . This month we are offering discounts on our heating tune ups to help make sure your home stays warm and safe through the cold months. Call 512-592-3072 today to schedule your Precision tune-up or set up a complimentary in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating system.