Your HVAC system requires year-round maintenance to function properly. One of the most important times to schedule HVAC maintenance is right before winter. Here is how to prepare your HVAC system for winter to help you avoid unexpected, costly breakdowns and higher energy bills.
You don’t want your heat to fail when it’s freezing outside. When it comes to HVAC maintenance, it’s best to hire a trusted professional to get your system ready for winter. Gallagher’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning offers reliable HVAC services in Sacramento.
7 TIPS ON HOW TO PREPARE YOUR HVAC SYSTEM FOR WINTER:
1. POWER DOWN AND CLEAN UP
Shutting off your HVAC system is the first step you should take to prepare it for the winter months. Once the blower completely stops, you can start the process of cleaning your unit. Using a small broom, you can remove any dust and debris from your HVAC unit.
You can also use a soft, damp cloth to wipe it down if there is stubborn dirt clinging to it. We don’t recommend using a hose, as you can damage the internals of your HVAC system. Cleaning your unit in the late fall will give you a fresh start for winter.
2. CHANGE OR CLEAN AIR FILTERS
The exterior shell of your HVAC unit isn’t the only thing you need to clean before winter. You also need to worry about your air filters and vents. We recommend changing your air filters every three months. If you don’t stay on a good filter replacement routine, it can negatively impact your HVAC system.
You should wipe down dirty vents so that air can flow freely. Clean vents and air filters allow your HVAC system to function more efficiently. This means it can do a better job of keeping your home warm in the winter.
3. LISTEN FOR STRANGE NOISES
Strange, loud noises are not normal and can indicate problems with your HVAC unit. Loud sounds can be a sign of several problems. Some examples include dirt build-up, a lack of lubrication, a worn-out belt, or loose and broken parts.
When you are preparing your HVAC system for winter, it’s important to listen to it. If you notice any loud crashing or banging sounds, you need to contact an HVAC specialist as soon as possible. The last thing you need is for your HVAC system to break down during the middle of winter.
4. MONITOR ROOM TEMPERATURE
There are few things better than walking into your warm, cozy home after working outdoors in the cold. The best way to prepare your HVAC system for winter is to ensure that the heat actually works. You can test your HVAC system before cold weather comes by cranking up the heat in your home.
If your home doesn’t feel warm even while running the furnace, you may need to contact an HVAC specialist. It’s possible that you have a faulty thermostat or clogged air filter. Testing your heat now is important so you aren’t scrambling to get it fixed when it’s already freezing outside. If your heat is working in the fall, you will have peace of mind for the chilly winter ahead.
5. CHECK FOR MOISTURE AND MOLD
Mold and other moisture-related issues are common with HVAC systems. You need to check your HVAC system for excess moisture before you turn the heat on this winter. Signs of mold build-up in your HVAC unit include:
- A musty smell when you turn on your heat or ac
- Mold in your home
- Health symptoms of mold exposure
- Mold on air vents
Removing mold and preventing future growth is one of the most important ways to prepare your HVAC system for winter. While mold may seem like a minor issue, it can negatively impact your health and your home’s indoor air quality.
6. PROTECT YOUR UNIT
We don’t recommend completely covering up your ac unit, because that can lead to mold buildup. There are ways to protect your unit while still allowing proper ventilation and airflow. For example, you can build a fence around your unit to protect it from the wind.
In a mild climate like Sacramento, you can probably get by with a simple wind barrier to protect your unit. Keeping your HVAC system protected will prolong its life and allow it to function better.
7. SCHEDULE SEASONAL MAINTENANCE
Fall isn’t the only time you need to check on your HVAC system. Seasonal maintenance and routine tune-ups are important. One of the best ways to ensure your HVAC system is winter-ready is to keep up with repairs and maintenance.
Keeping up with HVAC maintenance will prolong the life of your unit and allow it to operate more efficiently. Other benefits of keeping up with HVAC maintenance include improved indoor air quality, fewer breakdowns, and peace of mind during all seasons.
CONTACT GALLAGHER’S PLUMBING, HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING TODAY FOR HVAC SERVICES
When it comes to keeping your HVAC system maintained, you need a knowledgeable company you can rely on. Getting your HVAC system prepared for winter is important, and you can trust us to do a thorough, professional job. Gallagher’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning offers winter HVAC services in Sacramento and so much more.
Contact Gallagher’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning today to get your HVAC system ready for winter so you can have peace of mind and a cozy home when it’s cold outside.
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