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With temperatures finally beginning to cool off here in East Texas, it can only mean one thing: winter is right around the corner. And while we don’t tend to see blizzards or ice storms this far south, if we learned anything from last February’s freeze, it’s that we need to prepare our heaters now for the cold that lies ahead. We asked our certified HVAC technicians to share their top five tips for preparing your heater for winter. Read on to see what they had to say below.
#1 Maintain Your Heater Now
The last thing you want is for your heating unit to go out in the middle of the coldest part of the year. Scheduling an annual inspection of your furnace now, before it gets too chilly, will help your HVAC technician address any small issues before they turn into big problems, and can help you ensure your unit is operating to its full potential. Regular maintenance has been shown to reduce energy costs and extend the life of your heater.
#2 Change Your Filter Regularly
Many times, people ask “do I really need to switch my filter every month?” And the short answer is yes. A dirty air filter diminishes the quality of air in your home by blowing dust, allergens, and dirt through your vents. These contaminants can and will damage your heater, and will cost you more in energy bills.
The benefits of regularly replacing your air filters include:
- Extended heater life
- Lower energy costs
- Improved air quality
- Temperature regulation
- Prevention of short cycling or overheating
#3 Properly Calibrate Your Thermostat
Make sure your thermostat is set up correctly. If it isn’t, you could be overspending on your utility costs. You can also save up to $83 per year by setting your thermostat back seven to ten degrees for eight hours a day.
If you don’t have a smart, programmable thermostat, upgrading before winter arrives can help you save money and have peace of mind. The ComfortLink™ II XL1050 by Trane combines zoning technology and a home automation hub to remotely control your home, comfort, and energy use. It’s easily accessible from a smartphone, tablet or computer, which makes adjusting the temperature for your family’s comfort a breeze. Contact our team about upgrading today at airsolutionstx.com/contact.
#4 Replace Your Old Heater
If your heating unit is more than ten years old, it’s time to start considering an upgrade. Modern heaters can have ratings as high as 98%, meaning only 2% of energy is lost as exhaust. While a new furnace can be a big upfront expense, it’ll save you money in the long run by running more efficiently than heaters of decades past.
Trane offers a variety of new heaters for every home and budget. Popular options include their quietest offering, the S9V2-VS furnace, or their most efficient XC95m model. If you think it’s time to replace your heater, give us a call and we can help you select the unit that will best suit your needs.
#5 Inspect and Improve Your Seals and Insulation
This tip isn’t for preparing your heater per se, but for preparing your home for the cold, and possible freeze that lies ahead. Ensure all of your ducts are properly sealed. A leaking duct can cost you hundreds of dollars each year in wasted energy costs.
Check your windows and doors for air leaks and seal any you find. Finally, check your insulation. Are there areas of your home that feel especially drafty? Add more insulation where needed. Properly sealing and insulating your home can save you up to 10% on your energy costs, and will extend the life of your heater.
Heating and Cooling Experts in East Texas – Air Solutions of Beaumont
At Air Solutions, we can help you with any of your heating needs. Whether you need an inspection, regular maintenance, or a brand new unit, our experienced technicians are here for you.
For more information about our heating system selection, or to schedule an appointment for repair or maintenance, contact us today at (409) 962-2476, or visit us at airsolutionstx.com/contact.
