How Do I Prepare My HVAC For Winter?

Think it’s hot outside today? Just wait. The only thing for certain here in Denver is the changing weather.

Before you know it, you’ll be flipping the switch and putting your furnace back to work to take out the morning chill.

Will your HVAC system be ready for winter?

Most HVAC systems today are technologically driven. That means it operates efficiently throughout its life, requiring only a tune-up from time to time. But it’s those tune-ups that matter most.

Tune-ups keep everything in check. It’s like when the engine light pops on in your car. The problem may not be big to begin with; it’s advising you to get service before a bigger problem arises. The faster you act, the quicker you catch the problem, the less impact the damage will be.

Tune-ups on today’s HVAC systems should always occur by a licensed technician. But there are a few things you can do to prepare your HVAC for winter.

Replace the air filter

Are you replacing the air filter on a regular basis? At a minimum, replace once at the start of each season. If you have a busy household with kids and pets, even once per month can ensure a cleaner, healthier air flow. Dirty air filters make your HVAC system work harder, meaning less efficiency in operation.

Listen

Before you need your furnace, pick a cooler day and turn it on. Let it operate through a cycle and listen for unusual noises. Do you hear banging? Squealing? Clicking? If so, it might be your system’s way of telling you something is wrong.

Do a physical check of your equipment

HVAC systems aren’t in the most accessible place in your home. It’s usually in the basement, crawlspace, or tucked away in a closet. The ventilation system is sealed in behind walls, with only a few pieces showing as it snakes from room to room. But what you can see is often telling of the overall health of your system. Look for pooling water around the unit. Look for rust along the pipes and vents. Watch for dirt and debris accumulating around the registers. If something looks suspicious, it’s better to let a technician look at it right away.

Once your maintenance check-up is complete, your job isn’t over. Instead, be on the lookout all season long for changes in the way your equipment operates. If you notice a change and it’s impacting the way your furnace runs, give us a call. We’ll ensure everything is operating as it should, to keep you warm, safe, and happy all season through.