Winter is coming. (In comes Game of Thrones theme.) While you may not have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still critical to make sure your home is all set for the cold. Here are some suggestions from Parker Pearce Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Around Air Returns
You shouldn’t need cold air returns in the winter right? Wrong. Make sure your air returns (the larger vents) are not restricted and that air can flow smoothly through them. Your cold air returns are required to help your heating system run efficiently.
Upgrade Your Windows
Windows are a common way that heat can seep out your home, so consider upgrading old or inefficient windows to help trap heat inside during the cold months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With cold and flu season quickly approaching, you want to make sure you’re doing anything you can to keep your family from falling ill. For the well-being of your indoor air, swap out your furnace or duct air filter every quarter. This will also help your furnace run more efficiently and save you energy, which means decreasing your utility bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your furnace is older than ten years, it’s most likely not nearly as energy-efficient as newer furnaces. Before the cold hits and you’re stuck with a malfunctioning furnace or high energy bills, consider replacing your system.
Invest in a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not seem logical, but higher humidity, particularly in northern climates, can result in your home’s air feeling warmer than it is. Joined with the other benefits of less dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier could be the ultimate addition to your heating system.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
We say it all the time – a programmable thermostat lowers your energy usage and bills no matter what season it is. A programmable thermostat will let you turn down your home temperature while you are away to help decrease heating costs, and turn up the temperature before you even get home to provide the ideal amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the ideal amount of attic insulation helps keep heat from escaping during the winter, saving you energy because your heater doesn’t have to work as hard, and therefore saves you money by lowering your heating costs. Ask your local utility companies about rebates on installing or upgrading your home’s insulation.
Wrap Plumbing
Insulating your hot water pipes can actually help boost the temperature a couple of degrees. Warmer water on a decreased setting? That saves you energy and money – yes, please!
Get a Precision Tune-Up
Be sure your heating system is ready to keep you warm and comfy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Parker Pearce . Right now we are offering discounts on our heating tune ups to help make sure your family stays warm and safe all winter long. Call 301-476-4577 today to schedule your Precision tune-up or set up a complimentary in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system.