Winter is coming. (In comes Game of Thrones music.) While you probably won’t have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still important to make sure your home is all set for the cold. Here are a couple recommendations from Rob's Albertan Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Surrounding Air Returns
You shouldn’t need cold air returns in the cooler months right? Wrong. Verify your air returns (the bigger vents) are not obstructed and that air can easily flow through them. Your cold air returns are required to help your heating equipment run efficiently.
Update Your Windows
Windows are a common way that heat can escape your home, so think about upgrading old or inefficient windows to help retain heat inside during the cold months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With allergy and cold season nearing, you want to make sure you’re doing all you can to keep your family healthy. For the well-being of your indoor air, replace your furnace or duct air filter every quarter. This will also help your equipment run more efficiently and save you energy, which means decreasing your energy bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your furnace is older than ten years, it’s probably not nearly as energy-efficient as upgraded furnaces. Before the winter hits and you’re stuck with a malfunctioning furnace or high utility bills, think about replacing your system.
Purchase a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not make sense when you hear it, but more humidity, particularly in northern climates, can result in your home’s air feeling warmer than it is. Include the other benefits of less dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier may be the ideal addition to your heating system.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
We can’t say it enough – a programmable thermostat saves you energy and money no matter what season it is. A programmable thermostat will allow you to turn down your home temperature while you are away to help reduce heating costs, and turn up the temperature before you even get home to yield the ideal amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the right amount of attic insulation helps retain heat during the winter, saving you energy because your heating system doesn’t have to work as hard, and therefore saves you money by decreasing your energy bills. Check with your local utility companies about rebates on installing or upgrading your home’s insulation.
Insulate Plumbing
Insulating your hot water pipes can actually help boost the temperature a couple of degrees. Warmer water on a cooler setting? That lowers your energy use and bills – yes, please!
Get a Heating Tune-Up
Verify your heating system is ready to keep your home warm and comfy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Rob's Albertan . This month we are providing discounts on our heating tune ups to help make sure your family stays warm and safe through the cold months. Call 780-800-9047 today to schedule your seasonal tune-up or set up a free in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient HVAC system.