As summer comes to a close, you’re likely catching the first signs that cold weather is well on its way. Your HVAC system needs to be prepared for when the winter weather turns cold, allowing warm air to flow throughout your home. Before cold weather sets in, you must take preventive steps for winterizing HVAC systems.
Here are some steps to follow to keep your heating system and HVAC unit in working order all winter long:
Routine Maintenance Is Key
Before you have to switch from your air conditioning unit to the heater, it is crucial to have a trusted technician from an HVAC company take a look at your setup. They can tune up your HVAC system and may even be able to spot needed repairs before something costly breaks. This is a great time to replace your air filter, ensure air vents are open, and more.
Make your appointment before the first cold snap hits.
Programmable Thermostats
This is also a great time to consider installing a programmable thermostat to keep a consistent house temperature in winter. It can save you a lot of money on your heating costs once cold weather hits, helping you keep the temperature low during the night and at times when you aren’t home while keeping it comfortably warm when you are.
Winterizing Your HVAC System
Of course, there are some practical steps you should take to care for the unit itself. If you have a central air conditioner, make sure it is clear of sticks, leaves, pine needles, and any other debris that could interfere with its ability to work properly. You may need to cut back bushes or trim trees that interfere with your HVAC system.
If you decide to do this on your own, shut off power to the unit first. Otherwise, this is an excellent task for an HVAC technician to take on when they come to do your semi-annual maintenance and tune-up before winter comes.
You should also cover your HVAC unit to protect it from falling limbs in the heavy snow that is bound to come this winter. You can purchase a cover ideal for winterizing your HVAC system, or you can place a sturdy sheet of plywood over the unit in a pinch.
Once winter comes, you will want to keep a close eye on your air conditioner. Keep pests and rodents from making their home in the dry and warm confines of your unit. You should also prepare to clear it of ice and snow as often as possible during upcoming winter storms.
Handling Repairs Before the Winter Season
All of these types of winterizing your HVAC system should take place before the temperature drops. If your technician finds that you need new HVAC parts in Winnipeg, don’t wait until it’s too late to put them in order. Provincial Heating and Cooling can help you with your maintenance needs so that you aren’t stranded when cold weather comes.