Winter Tips For New Homeowners

As winter chills us, the HVAC system in your home will be put to the test. For new homeowners, this can be particularly nerve-wracking. At least until you know all the ins and outs of your system yet. Here are a few tips to help you and your home stay comfortable through your first season there.

See Also: Keeping Your Energy Bill Down in the Winter

Change the Air Filter

If you’ve just moved in and haven’t changed the filter yet, go ahead and do it. You can’t be sure how long it’s been since the previous owner changed it, so it’s best to start fresh. That way you’ll know your HVAC is getting proper airflow, and you can make sure that a high-quality filter is keeping your air clean

See Also: Six Simple Steps to Help Your Air Conditioner Work Better

Check the Batteries

If your HVAC doesn’t seem to be cutting on at the right temperature, or isn’t coming on at all, the first thing to do is put fresh batteries in the thermostat. Again, there’s no telling how long it’s been since the previous owner replaced them, and a thermostat with dead batteries can look the same as an actual breakdown. Save yourself from an unnecessary service call by making sure it’s not just the batteries first.

See Also: Demand Response Programs Use Smart Thermostats to Manage Power

Let the Air Flow

If your home seems to be heating unevenly, don’t assume that it’s a problem with the furnace without checking airflow first. Make sure all of the registers are open and that none of them are blocked by furniture, drapes, or carpets. And of course, make sure there’s nothing blocking the air intake too.

See Also: Are all Air Filters the Same?

Clean Up Landscaping

It’s also important that nothing blocks the airflow around the outside unit of your HVAC. Cut back or remove any shrubs, monkey grass, or other vegetation that’s growing within two feet of the outside unit. But be careful not to damage the unit in the process! Don’t use gas/electric trimmers close to your HVAC. They can clip wires or damage the fins and coils.

See Also: Is It OK to Landscape Around My HVAC Unit?

Prepare for Power Problems

Winter storms bring power surges and outages. Adding a surge protector to your HVAC unit can help to keep it safe. Turning off your HVAC when storms are nearby can also help. Collect emergency supplies such as candles, flashlights, and non-perishable food, and consider getting a generator for your home so that you can keep warm even during longer outages.

See Also:  Avoiding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning During Power Outages

Make a Plan

A Service Partner Plan Agreement with a reputable, licensed HVAC company will establish a relationship you’ll be glad to have if your HVAC running on those cold winter days. Plus, our SPP includes preventive maintenance twice a year, which will help to ensure that the HVAC in your new home runs as efficiently and reliably as possible, keeping you comfortable for years to come.

See Also: Contact Us