Houston isn’t exactly known for bitterly cold winters, but we are known to get a surprise blast of icy cold at random. Winter is still 2 or 3 months away, but fall is the time to get your system ready. Ensuring your HVAC system is ready to handle the colder temperatures is essential for maintaining a comfortable and efficient home.
Many homeowners don’t think about their HVAC systems until they run into a problem, but proactive maintenance and preparation can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
At AIRTEAM Heating & Cooling, we believe in helping our customers get the most out of their HVAC systems, and we’ve put together some practical tips to make sure your system runs smoothly all winter long.
Schedule A Professional HVAC Tune-Up
The best way to keep your HVAC system in peak condition is by scheduling a professional tune-up. This HVAC service allows our trained technicians to inspect, clean, and adjust your air conditioning system, ensuring it’s working efficiently. Regular maintenance can reduce energy consumption by 15-20%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, and it helps prevent small issues from turning into major problems.
During a tune-up, we’ll check important components like:
- Thermostats
- Electrical connections
- Air filters
- Refrigerant levels
- Blower components
- Heat exchangers
By inspecting and servicing these parts, we can ensure your system is running at maximum efficiency. Our MVP Preventative Maintenance Program makes it easy to stay on top of your HVAC tune-ups year-round, offering priority service and discounts on repairs. Whether you’re looking for Houston HVAC repair or a routine check-up, our team is here to help.
Replace Air Filters Regularly
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your HVAC system running smoothly is by replacing your air filters regularly. A dirty or clogged filter restricts airflow, causing your system to work harder to heat your home. This leads to higher energy bills and increased wear and tear on your system. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends changing air filters every 1-3 months, especially during peak seasons like summer and winter.
A clean filter not only improves efficiency but also helps improve indoor air quality, which is essential during the colder months when homes are sealed up tight. A quick filter change can make a noticeable difference in both comfort and energy savings.
Seal And Insulate Your Home
If your home isn’t properly sealed and insulated, your HVAC system has to work overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature. Gaps around windows, doors, and other openings allow warm air to escape and cold air to creep in, putting extra strain on your system. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air leaks and poor insulation can account for up to 30% of a home’s heating energy use.
Here’s what you can do to improve insulation:
- Check for drafts around doors and windows and seal them with weather stripping or caulk.
- Make sure your attic is properly insulated.
- Consider insulating your ductwork, as leaks or poorly insulated ducts can cause up to 20% of conditioned air to be lost before it even reaches your living spaces.
By improving insulation and sealing any gaps, you’ll reduce the workload on your Houston HVAC system and enjoy lower energy bills this winter.
Clean Your Ductwork
Ductwork plays a crucial role in distributing warm air throughout your home. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can build up in the ducts, reducing efficiency and air quality. If your ductwork is clogged or dirty, your HVAC system will have to work harder to push air through, leading to higher energy costs and potential damage to the system.
Professional duct cleaning can remove any buildup in the ducts and improve airflow. This not only makes your system more efficient but also ensures better indoor air quality by reducing allergens and contaminants in the air. We recommend having your ducts cleaned every 3-5 years, or more often if you have pets or allergies.
Use A Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can make a significant difference in how efficiently your HVAC system operates. These devices allow you to set temperature schedules based on your daily routine, so your system isn’t working harder than necessary when no one is home. For example, you can set the temperature lower while you’re at work and have it gradually increase just before you return.
According to the Department of Energy, homeowners can save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling costs by turning their thermostat back 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. With a programmable thermostat, you can do this automatically, optimizing your energy usage without sacrificing comfort. If you’re looking for even more control, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat, which can be controlled remotely via your smartphone.
Keep Vents And Registers Clear
It’s easy to forget about the vents and registers in your home, but keeping them clear is important for maintaining proper airflow. Make sure that furniture, curtains, or other objects aren’t blocking your vents, as this can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. Even partially blocked vents force your system to work harder to distribute air, leading to higher energy bills and potential damage.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to clean your vents regularly. Dust and debris can accumulate over time, reducing the effectiveness of your HVAC system and lowering indoor air quality. A quick vacuum or dusting can go a long way in keeping your system running smoothly.
Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit
Your HVAC system’s outdoor unit is responsible for transferring heat between your home and the outside air. During the fall, leaves, dirt, and debris can accumulate around the unit, obstructing airflow and reducing efficiency. Before the winter weather hits, make sure the area around your outdoor unit is clear of any obstructions.
Trim back any bushes or plants that may have grown too close to the unit, and clean off any debris that has built up on or around it. This simple task ensures your system can operate efficiently and prevents potential damage from debris getting into the unit.
Ready For A Smooth-Running HVAC System This Winter?
By following these tips, you can ensure your HVAC system runs smoothly and efficiently throughout the winter. From regular maintenance to small adjustments, these steps can make a big difference in your comfort and your energy bills.
If you’re ready to take the next step, contact AIRTEAM Heating & Cooling today to schedule your winter tune-up or learn more about our MVP Preventative Maintenance Program. With our expertise, you can rest easy knowing your HVAC system is in good hands.
