Importance of Preparing Your HVAC For The Winter Months

Those fall season leaves are starting to disappear, kids are preparing for winter break, and families across the world are preparing for the holidays. Around the time the Christmas decorations start to go up, you should consider getting your HVAC ready for the winter. 

It’s best to service your furnace early in the autumn, or even at the end of summer to ensure your HVAC system functions properly all winter long. It can be hard to schedule furnace service and repairs late into the year, especially when crisp mornings give way to freezing ones. The last thing you need is a central heating failure in the middle of a cold winter’s night. 

There are still some things you can do by yourself before hiring a professional HVAC company. Follow these HVAC maintenance tips to keep your home heated throughout the winter.

5 Tips to Get Your HVAC System Ready for the Colder Months

1.Extend the Lifespan of Your HVAC

Knowing the make and model of your HVAC is key to understanding the proper maintenance on the unit, along with consistent upkeep on your carbon monoxide detector, ignitor switch, blow motor, heat exchanger, and filters. 

All HVAC systems utilize some type of filtration in order to work properly. If these filters  aren’t properly addressed, then dust and debris make the system have to work harder, costing you more in energy costs. Changing out filters every 3-6 months and keeping the unit clean from buildup are key to extending the lifespan of your HVAC. 

2. Fill Those Cracks & Save Money

Prevent the heat from escaping your house by filling the gaps or cracks around your doors and windows. This allows your HVAC system to work more efficiently while saving you money in the process. Caulking your home from any air leaks can also help you cut down on your energy bills.

3. Investing in a Smart Thermostat

Another way in doing so is by adding a more updated thermostat for your HVAC systems. The more updated models, often called smart thermostats or programmable thermostats, provide you more control without fidgeting with the temperature, even when you’re away or forget to switch it off. By allowing you to map out the temperatures in advance, you save money on your energy bills while lowering your carbon footprint.

4. Cover the A/C Condenser Unit

During the fall and winter seasons, turn off your A/C and cover the outdoor condenser unit. Avoid the possibility of falling debris or icicles damaging your unit by placing a piece of plywood, or trash lid over the condenser. Using a bungee can help ensure the cover will be held down on those windy days. 

5. Consider Buying a New Unit

Is your HVAC system older than 10 years? Are repairs costing more than the appliance itself? Or is your unit becoming inefficient and unreliable when it matters most? It might be time to consider investing in a new system. Talk to a reliable HVAC professional to determine which is the best route for you as well as to review costs of replacing your current system.

Service Your HVAC System with CJ Plumbing & Heating

In order for your HVAC system to function as it should, it’ll need regular tune-ups. If you’re wanting to avoid any issues during those cold months when things can be that much more hectic, then routine furnace maintenance can help you avoid the unexpected. 

At CJ Plumbing & Heating, our team of plumbing and HVAC professionals are dedicated to delivering red carpet satisfaction to homeowners and businesses throughout Chicago. We are also A+ BBB accredited and COVID-19 compliant.

Call 847-491-9828 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a service appointment.