Winter in Oklahoma and Arkansas can feel like it comes far too soon, and before you know it, it’s time to winterize your HVAC system again. Seasonal HVAC maintenance checks can add up over time, causing you to wonder: “Do I really need to winterize my HVAC?”
The short answer is “no.” Not everyone does seasonal HVAC maintenance checks, but we highly recommend that you do them. Why? Well, winter can push your heating equipment to the max. If you want to save time and avoid the high costs associated with repairs and replacements, winterizing your HVAC system is the way to go.
You rely on your furnace an average of 1,200 hours per year. Make sure your HVAC is ready for the challenge with these seven pro tips for winterizing your HVAC system.
1. Change Your Filter
This is one of the easiest and best things you can do to maintain your HVAC system. This simple tip can save you a lot of money in the long run. Just be sure to turn off your furnace before you change the filter (make sure the thermostat or the breaker to the furnace is turned to “off”).
2. Don’t Wrap Your HVAC Unit
Though it may sound like a good idea, wrapping your outdoor HVAC unit during the cold winter months can cause rusting and internal moisture damage. The unit is designed to handle both the cold and the heat, so save yourself the hassle and leave it be.
3. Set Your Thermostat Temperature Lower
When it’s cold, it’s common sense to think that you should turn your thermostat up, but actually, it’s better to turn it down. By heating your home more efficiently, this pro tip will save you money on your energy bill and prevent your HVAC system from working harder than it needs to.
What Temperature Should Set Your Thermostat to?
65°F is ideal, but even if you turn the thermostat down just a few degrees lower than you would normally, it can make a big difference. One easy way to save on energy costs is to wear warm clothing in your home and turn the heat down during the night when everyone is snuggled in their beds.
4. Clean Dust from the Air Returns
You can locate the air returns by looking for vents on the walls or floors in your home. If they aren’t blowing any air out, they’re the vents that return air to your HVAC system. Easily vacuum all dust and debris from these vents to extend the life of your filters and your furnace.
5. Vacuum Dust and Debris Around Your Inside Unit
If your inside unit is surrounded by dust and debris, you can bet they’ll end up in your furnace at some point, which can lead to clogging. Vacuum around the furnace and remove debris to keep your furnace clean.
6. Remove Dirt And Debris From Your Outside Unit
Dirt and debris can accumulate in your outside unit, causing it to stop functioning. Avoid unnecessary replacement costs by regularly clearing up the dirt and debris around it.
7. Get a Furnace Maintenance Checkup
This is one of the most important things you can do to prevent costly repairs in the future. Getting a maintenance checkup from a professional:
- Prevents costly damage and service disruption
- Gives you the opportunity to voice any questions or concerns you may have
- Will keep your HVAC system running smoothly for a longer period of time
Keeping up with these basic tasks is important to extend the life of your HVAC, but so too is an inspection from a professional. We offer bi-annual HVAC maintenance plans, including cleanings and servicing from our friendly technicians.
If you live in Oklahoma or Arkansas, reach out to Airco Service Heating and Cooling for all of your HVAC needs.
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