How To Prepare Your HVAC System for the Winter

Winter is almost here, which means colder temperatures, snow, and ice are on their way. As a homeowner, prepping your home for the winter season is crucial to keep you and your family warm and comfortable. One often overlooked aspect of winter preparation is preparing your HVAC system.

Your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system is an essential part of your home, especially during the winter months. It’s responsible for keeping your home warm and comfortable when the temperatures drop outside. Before you bundle up, learn some steps you can take to prepare and ensure that your HVAC system is ready to handle the winter season.

Schedule a Professional Maintenance Check

The first step in preparing your HVAC system for the winter is to schedule a professional maintenance check. Ideally, you should schedule a professional maintenance check once a year, but this check is even more crucial before the start of the winter season.

A professional heating and cooling technician will thoroughly inspect your system and determine any necessary repairs or replacements. This check ensures that your system is running efficiently and effectively when you need it most.

During the maintenance check, the technician will inspect air filters, check for any leaks or blockages in the system, and make sure all components function properly. This inspection (and any subsequent repairs) helps your heating and cooling system run smoothly during the winter and saves you money on energy bills.

Clear Outside Units

If you have an outdoor cooling unit, it’s essential to clear away any debris or vegetation that may hinder it. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can easily fall into the unit, blocking airflow and causing potential damage. What a nightmare!

Protect Your Outdoor AC Unit

While the indoor elements of your heating and cooling system are important, don’t forget about the outdoor part—your air conditioning unit. This equipment can be vulnerable to the harsh winter weather, and taking preventative measures can save you from costly repairs or replacements in the future.

Cover Your AC Unit

After cleaning, consider covering your AC unit. Covering your outdoor unit with a protective cover specifically designed for outdoor cooling units is rarely a bad idea. This covering will help prevent ice or snow from accumulating on the unit and potentially causing damage. Make sure to choose a cover that fits your unit properly and allows for ventilation to avoid condensation, as excess moisture can lead to rust or mold.

There are plenty of coverings on the market. If you’re stumped, ask a professional to make a few recommendations. They can point you in the right direction, and you’ll sleep soundly, knowing your AC unit is safe.

Regularly Check Your AC Unit

Throughout the winter, you should regularly check on your AC unit. Remove any snow or ice buildup, and ensure the cover is still securely in place. Regular checks will help you catch any potential problems early before they result in the need for costly repairs or replacements.

By preparing and protecting your outdoor AC unit for the winter, you’ll help ensure the longevity of your HVAC system and keep your home comfortable and warm all season long.

Check Your Thermostat

Before the winter season starts, checking your thermostat and ensuring it’s correctly working is a good idea. If you have an old manual thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable one. A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, which can help save money on energy bills.

Smart and programmable thermostats are the way of the future. They can learn your habits and adjust the temperature based on the data. For example, it will discover your temperature preferences over time.

Another excellent advantage of smart and programmable thermostats is that your home will be at the perfect temperature when you sleep or return from work. With a smart thermostat, you can use your phone to adjust the temp before you arrive. Set the temperature based on the time with a programmable thermostat. It will change and warm up the house before you arrive.

Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks in your home can cause your HVAC system to work harder and less efficiently. Sealing any drafts around doors, windows, and other areas of your house is essential. This task will help keep your home warmer and save you money on heating costs.

Insulate Your Home

Another way to ensure your HVAC system works efficiently during the winter is by properly insulating your home. Good insulation helps keep heat from escaping your house, meaning your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to keep your home warm. Insulate areas such as attics, basements, and crawl spaces with fiberglass or foam insulation.

Change Your Air Filters

Changing your air filters regularly is crucial for maintaining good air quality in your home and keeping your HVAC system functioning properly. It’s even more important to check and replace your air filters regularly in the winter months. Clogged or dirty filters can restrict airflow, making your system work harder and potentially causing damage.

Consider a Zoned HVAC System

If you want to upgrade your HVAC system, consider installing a zoned version. A zoned heating and cooling system allows you to independently control the temperature in different areas of your home. This zoning can help save money on energy bills and provide optimal comfort for you and your family.

Don’t Neglect Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system is critical to keeping your home warm and comfortable during the winter. It’s essential not to neglect its maintenance and take proper steps to prepare it for the chillier months ahead. By following these tips, you can ensure your system runs efficiently and effectively, saving you money in the long run.

Winter can be a harsh season, but by taking the necessary steps to prepare your HVAC system, you can keep your home warm and comfortable. Don’t wait until it’s too late; schedule a maintenance check and take care of any repairs or replacements before the temperatures drop. Choose Dring Air Conditioning and Heating for all your HVAC system needs. We provide quality HVAC service to the Fort Worth area. Contact us before the weather gets colder, and we’ll ensure your heating and cooling systems are ready.