When the season changes and the cool breezes start to blow, it’s important to set up your heating system and prepare your home’s air conditioning for the upcoming chilly months. Check out these tips from heating and cooling near me to ensure both your systems are ready to go.
Winterize Your Heating and Cooling Near Me Systems
It’s best to begin winterizing your house as soon as the temperature rises above zero. The advice and techniques listed below should help you get going:
- To stop warm air from leaking out and vice versa, invest in draft snakes.
- To save money on heating, re-caulk cracks and fix weather-stripping on windows, piping, and foundation.
- To reduce the pathogens and allergens of autumn, change the air filter.
- To clean vents, contact a professional. If you do not have a company you normally use, simply search for heating and cooling near me.
- Reduce heating bills by turning fans clockwise.
- Reduce the water heater’s temperature to about 170 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Insulate pipes.
Focusing on Your Air Conditioning Unit
About once per month, you should routinely clean and/or replace the air filters in your air conditioner. This should also be done at the change of season. By following this regimen, you can lower the number of allergens and pathogens in your home and save between 5 and 15% on your energy costs.
Take the time to clear the area around the condenser unit of any organic debris. By the end of the summer, the area around the condenser unit is covered in dirt, grime, weeds, and leaves. This can obstruct the free passage of clean air and reduce the effectiveness of your HVAC system in the winter. You should remove any weeds and rake leaves or grass clippings as well.
Talk to your heating and cooling near me specialist about unplugging your air conditioning unit while not in use. Doing so can eliminate the chance of condenser damage in the event that someone unintentionally sets the thermostat to “cool” during the fall. Locate a shut-off box close to your condenser unit on the outer wall, then turn the switch inside. When the weather turns warmer again, you will need to turn on the power 24 hours before utilizing the air conditioner.
Consider increasing the insulation. For the exposed wiring and pipes of the air conditioner, especially those that enter your home, use foam pipe covers. In order to keep the foam insulation in place and prevent pipes from freezing and cracking, you can also use duct tape.
Plan an Inspection for HVAC Maintenance
Inspections should be made periodically so as to prevent emergencies and expensive, unanticipated repairs and replacements (every 3 to 4 months). A specialist needs to complete the following duties on the main system for the fall:
- Purified air ducts.
- Make sure you have the right amount of refrigerant.
- Check for and fix duct leaks.
- Ensure the airflow across the evaporator coil.
- Make sure the electric control sequence is accurate.
- Examine the electrical terminals, then tighten and clean the connections.
- Oil the motors and inspect belts for wear and tightness.
- Double-check the correctness of the thermostat.
- Modify the thermostat’s settings. Change the temperature settings on the thermostat for your air conditioner when you change the time. You should adjust the temperature in cooler weather according to your comfort level.
Make Sure Your Heating is Running Smoothly
You might notice a smell when you turn on the heat for the first time in the fall. The dust that has accumulated on the heating elements during the past few months of stagnation is typically what gives off the burnt scent. It should disappear shortly. Make a call to heating and cooling near me if the heat won’t turn on. Winter is one of the most expensive utility seasons for homeowners. To ensure your unit is running properly, follow these recommendations.
Change the filter.
Your furnace filter can fill up with dust, hair, and other debris over the course of a year. Your furnace will have to work harder and produce less heat if the filter is clogged. You should clean or replace your filter, depending on the kind, every four to six weeks.
Check your vents.
The ventilation into the room may be impeded if furniture or thick curtains cover the floor or wall vents. Check the vents for hair, pet fur, and other blockages, and rearrange your furniture if necessary.
Installation of storm windows.
Storm windows may already be present in your windows. If they don’t, you might think about getting storm windows in place of your screens to keep the heat in during the chilly winter months.
Verify the thermostat.
Older thermostats can interpret the temperature incorrectly and prevent your furnace from operating effectively. To increase your efficiency, test it to make sure it’s operating properly, and think about switching to a programmable thermostat. Arrange for maintenance.
Call Heating and Cooling Near Me for a Tune-Up
Contrary to popular belief, HVAC systems require more upkeep. The easiest way to avoid a pricey breakdown in the middle of winter is to schedule a furnace tune-up in the early fall. As the temperature drops, the technician can take precautions to ensure that your furnace is in good condition.
Tips to Save Money On Your Utility Bills
If you’re like most homeowners, the ability to save money on your utility bills is an opportunity you will take. There are a few additional tips and tricks that might help you with this beyond the things mentioned above. Always ensure you have the most efficient heating and cooling near me systems as well. This will get you started on the right foot.
- Make sure you’re using energy-efficient light bulbs.
- Replace old appliances.
- Pay attention to appliances that are always turned on – could you unplug them in between use?
- Seal air leaks around doors and windows.
- Use your appliances wisely.
Summary
At Schneider Mechanical, we’re here to help you have a warm winter and a cool summer. Our team of specialists is ready to help you get the most out of your heating and cooling systems in the Austin, TX, area. Contact us today for quality products and top brands. We’re family owned and operated, and your satisfaction is guaranteed.
