Get the Home’s Heating System Ready for Cold Weather
Autumn is underway, which means several months of cooler weather are ahead. And even though the Tri-Valley area may be more temperate than many parts of the country, it still sees its fair share of chilly temperatures in the fall and winter. For many homeowners, it’s time to fire up the heater and hunker down for the brisk days and cold nights ahead.
But after a long summer, the home’s heating system likely needs some care and attention to ensure it’s ready to handle the workload. Otherwise, homeowners may find themselves with a malfunctioning heater just when they need it most. So this article will lay out three easy ways to ensure the heater runs smoothly and efficiently until next spring rolls around!
Get a Heater Tune-Up
The first - and arguably the most important - thing homeowners can do to get their heating systems ready for fall is to schedule heater maintenance with a professional HVAC service company. This usually takes 1-3 hours, depending on the type of heater or furnace, so it can be done with minimal disruption to the usual routine. A few of the tasks involved in fall heater maintenance include:
- Cleaning the gas burners, flame sensor, and exhaust flue (in gas furnaces)
- Checking electrical connections and tightening or replacing them if necessary
- Lubricating bearings and other moving parts
- Checking fan belts and other components for evidence of wear, and replacing them if necessary
- Testing amperage and voltage levels
- Cleaning internal components and inspecting the system for issues
These tasks, and the many others that technicians perform during a heating tune-up, are all designed to catch minor problems early, mitigate wear and tear, and improve the system’s energy efficiency. This means a more comfortable home, a longer-lasting heating system, and less money spent on heating costs every winter!
Replace the Air Filters
Another key component of heating maintenance is the simple task of regularly changing the HVAC air filters. A professional may handle the air filter replacement during their maintenance visit, depending on the condition of the filters. Still, it’s ultimately up to the homeowners to stay on top of this.
Ideally, the air filters should go no longer than 3 months without replacement. But in some homes, replacing the filters every 1-2 months may be better, particularly if there are multiple furry pets, anyone has allergies or respiratory sensitivities, or the home just tends to get dusty quickly.
If the air filters aren’t changed often enough, they can get clogged with dirt and debris, making it harder for the heater’s blower fan to circulate air throughout the home. This will reduce energy efficiency, put undue strain on the unit, and hinder its ability to keep the home warm. So just by changing the filters on time, homeowners can help lower their heating bills, protect the heater from damage, and enjoy a cleaner, warmer home!
Keep an Eye On Energy Usage
Another way to ensure the heating system is in good shape for the fall and winter is to monitor the home’s energy usage. In a typical home, the HVAC system consumes more energy than any other single appliance, so big changes in the energy bill can often be traced to the AC or heater. Unusually high energy bills may indicate an issue with the heater itself, so keeping a close eye on the monthly energy consumption can alert homeowners to potential problems.
But even if the yearly heater tune-up reveals that the system is in good shape, homeowners can still use energy usage as a tool to look for ways of reducing their heating costs. For instance, they may lose warm air through gaps around doors and windows, causing the system to work harder to maintain the desired indoor temperature. Installing weatherstripping or upgrading windows may help keep warm air inside the house, reducing the workload on the heater.
Sometimes, the household’s heater usage patterns may be the problem. Installing a smart thermostat can allow homeowners to create a more dynamic heating schedule that reduces unnecessary energy consumption. Most smart thermostats also come with various features designed to further improve energy efficiency, such as remote temperature control, occupancy sensors, and advanced usage metrics – so homeowners can significantly reduce their heating costs and keep their homes nice and toasty all at once!
About Barker Heating & Cooling
Since 1998, Barker Heating & Cooling has been one of the most trusted and highly-rated HVAC companies in Livermore and the Tri-Valley area. With their clear communication, convenient appointment windows, top-notch workmanship, and unbeatable customer service, they proudly receive numerous 5-star reviews and awards, including the BBB’s Torch Award for Ethics and Service. They offer same-day and emergency services with no overtime rates, unbeatable warranties, and a money-saving maintenance membership plan – so there’s no one better to call for heating maintenance in Livermore, CA!
