Winter is coming. (Cue Game of Thrones theme.) While you shouldn’t have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still critical to make sure your home is good to go for the cold. Here are some recommendations from Neal Harris Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Surrounding Air Returns
You shouldn’t need cold air returns in the cold season right? Wrong. Verify your air returns (the more sizable vents) are not blocked and that air can easily flow through them. Your cold air returns are necessary to help your heating system run efficiently.
Update Your Windows
Windows are a usual way that heat can leak out your home, so think about upgrading 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 everything you can to keep your family in good health. For the health of your indoor air, swap out your furnace or duct air filter every few months. This will also help your furnace run more efficiently and save you energy, which means saving you money on utility bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your system is older than 12 years, it’s probably not nearly as energy-efficient as updated equipment. Before the cooler temperature hits and you’re stuck with a failing furnace or high heating bills, consider replacing your system.
Invest in a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not seem logical, 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 less dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier could be the ultimate addition to your HVAC system.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – a programmable thermostat lowers your energy usage and bills no matter what temperature it is. A programmable thermostat will allow you to decrease your home temperature while you are at work to help decrease heating costs, and increase the temperature before you even make it home to give you the perfect amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the right amount of attic insulation helps keep heat from escaping during the winter, saving you energy because your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard, and therefore saves you money by decreasing your energy bills. Ask your local utility companies about rebates for upgrading or installing your attic insulation.
Wrap Plumbing
Insulating your hot water pipes can actually help increase 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
Verify your furnace is ready to keep you warm and cozy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Neal Harris . Currently we are giving discounts on our heating tune ups to help make sure you stay warm and safe through the winter. Call 816-787-0500 today to schedule your seasonal tune-up or set up a free in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating system.