Your HVAC system is very important to the comfort level and air quality of your Fort Collins or Loveland home; without this system working properly, it can be very uncomfortable to live in your home, especially during very cold or hot periods of the year. Ensuring it works well during the very cold periods of the winter is key, as its performance can be affected by the weather conditions. To ensure that your HVAC system runs efficiently and effectively throughout the winter, it is crucial to winterize it. Here’s how:
Have a Technician Inspect Your System
Having a HVAC technician from a company such as from JT Plumbing Heating & Air inspect your system and do routine maintenance before the winter season begins can go a long way to ensuring your system makes it through the winter and does the job it is expected to do – heating your home efficiently and optimally. Clogged air filters reduce airflow, which reduces the system’s efficiency, and can cause it to work harder than necessary. Leaky ducts can lead to significant heat loss, reduced indoor comfort, and high energy bills.
Ensure There Is No Debris in the Outdoor Unit
Use a garden hose to rinse your unit and ensure there are no twigs, leaves, dust, dirt, and other debris within the outdoor unit. Be sure the unit has enough time to dry completely (meaning it would make sense to do this on a relatively warm day with a good deal of sunshine).
Put a Waterproof A/C Unit Cover On Your Unit
To keep as much moisture out of your unit as possible and protect it from winter weather, put a waterproof cover on your unit and secure it. Before you put the cover on the unit, be sure both the unit and the cover are completely dry; otherwise, you might trap moisture onto the unit, which could degrade or even damage your unit and cause it to break down sooner.
Monitor Your Thermostat
A properly calibrated and programmable thermostat can reduce energy consumption and increase comfort levels. Ensure that the thermostat is calibrated, set the temperature to your desired comfort level, and program it to adjust the temperature automatically.
Keep Your Furnace Maintained
A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently and can save on energy and money. Schedule a professional inspection to ensure that the furnace is in good working condition.
Winterizing your HVAC system is crucial for ensuring indoor comfort and safety during winter. It not only improves the system’s energy efficiency, reducing energy consumption and lowering energy bills, but also extends its lifespan and minimizes the need for repairs or replacements. By reducing the stress on the system, winterizing helps it run efficiently and prolongs its lifespan, while ensuring that it’s in good working condition reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns, which can be costly and disruptive.
Contact us to inspect your HVAC to ensure it is working as it should to ensure its efficiency throughout the winter months and the entire year in Northern Colorado.
