The cold months are here and it is time to start thinking about preparing your home’s heating and air-conditioning system to optimize your comfort. By taking a few simple steps now, you can prevent costly furnace repairs and avoid potential problems down the road. To learn more about maintenance tips and how to prepare your HVAC for winter, contact the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons. Serving the St. Louis area since 1950, we are experts when it comes to all of your HVAC needs and questions.
5 Steps to Prepare HVAC for Winter
Here are the 5 steps you need to take to prepare your HVAC for winter:
Check and Replace the Filter
A dirty furnace filter can cause a number of problems, like decreased efficiency and reduced air quality.
If your furnace has a cleanable filter, take it out and give it a good rinse with warm water. If it’s disposable, replace it with a new one. A clean or new filter will help your furnace run more efficiently and may even prolong its life.
Inspect the Vents
A build-up of dust and debris in vents can lead to reduced airflow and efficiency in your HVAC system. This can cause your system to use more energy, which can lead to higher utility bills throughout the winter season.
To clean your HVAC vents, start by inspecting them in all rooms to see if there is any visible build-up. If there is, use a vacuum with a brush attachment to gently remove any debris. Be sure to vacuum both the vents themselves and the area around them to ensure all build-up is removed.
Make Sure the Exhaust Vents are Clean
A clogged or dirty exhaust vent can cause your HVAC system to work harder than necessary, increasing energy costs and wear and tear on your system. Additionally, cracked or improperly installed exhaust pipes can end up sucking in carbon monoxide and other exhaust gases back into your home. Because of these potentially dangerous effects, checking and cleaning the exhaust vents is a key step when asking how to prepare your HVAC for winter.
Here are some tips on how to inspect and clean your HVAC exhaust vent:
- First, take a look at the exhaust pipes from the outside of your home. These are typically made of PVC or CPVC and are located in the foundation. In some houses, they may also be installed on the roof.
- If you see any leaves, dirt, or other debris around the vent, then it needs to be cleaned. Make sure the pipes have a clearance of at least five feet around them.
- Next you should be sure to inspect the exhaust pipe inside and out, using a flashlight to inspect it for any blockages, buildup, or cracks. If you see any blockages, use a brush or other tool to remove them.
Inspect the Blower
A clean blower will help your system to operate more efficiently and will also extend its life. Cleaning the blower is also crucial for safety if you have a gas furnace. Before checking the blower, be sure to turn the furnace off. Remove the access panel and inspect the blower for cracks or wear. If it looks worn, damaged, or frayed, schedule professional HVAC maintenance to have it replaced or repaired.
Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune Up
This is one of the most important things you can do to prepare your HVAC system for winter. A tune-up will ensure that your furnace is running efficiently and safely. Making the small investment in regular maintenance and tune ups now, can help you save on operating costs and prevent major repair bills throughout the winter season.
Schedule Professional Maintenance to Prepare your HVAC for Winter
If you are looking for expert heating & air conditioner maintenance in the greater St. Louis area, give Galmiche & Sons a call. From providing HVAC tune-ups and general HVAC maintenance services to performing emergency HVAC repair and replacement, we are ready to help keep your HVAC system running smoothly all season long.
