Is your Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) equipment ready for the challenges that the Northern Kentucky, Greater Cincinnati, Ohio area bring with the changing seasons? The Cincinnati Tri-state area has hot summers and cold winters with frigid or sub-zero temperatures. This typically means either one’s heater / furnace or air conditioner is running for most of the year. AnyWeather Heating & Air, a local Cincinnati HVAC contractor, is ready to help! Here are 7 tips that will keep furnaces efficiently producing warm air in the cold months, as well as ways to help maintain air conditioning units in preparation for hot summer days.
Change Your Air Filter To Optimize Your HVAC System
Have you replaced your air filter recently? A debris-filled filter impedes air flow and will cause your furnace to work longer and harder to achieve the temperature desired. You don’t need to be an HVAC engineer to know this will increase the chance of a breakdown as well as shortening the life of the unit. Dirty air filters can also drive up your energy bills. Manufacturers recommend replacing the air filter each month. Like an oil change for a car, this is the most important thing a homeowner can do to extend the life and operating efficiency of the HVAC system and things like having to replace your furnace or AC earlier then planned.
Clean The Air Vents
Do you also clean your vents when you vacuum your floors? Make sure to give your vents some love to prevent any blockages or indoor air quality problems. This simple step will help to optimize your HVAC system for Winter. Clean vents to promote a good consistent flow of air. Sometimes your vents require more than just some vacuuming. In this case, call in a professional duct cleaner to remove the grit and grime that has built up in your system.
Pro Tip: Air Purification Systems can reduce the amount of dust in your home and make it easier for your HVAC system to filter the air passing through it.
Check Your Thermostat
Make sure you have fresh batteries in your thermostat and that the settings are correct for the winter months. HVAC professionals recommend setting your thermostat to a cooler temperature at night and while you are away from the home. A programmable thermostat means your heating or cooling equipment will run less, extending its life. If you have a “smart” thermostat make sure it is communicating with your HVAC system optimally.
Install A Programmable Thermostat
The ability to regulate temperatures automatically in your home is a great way to save some money on your energy bills. Many thermostats can now be controlled from phones or tablets, enabling convenient and flexible ways to save on energy costs. The are also able to communicate with compatibly HVAC systems in order to improve Indoor Air Quality and run at maximum efficiency levels.
Insulation Makes A Big Difference
Make sure there is adequate insulation in your attic and your roof is vented properly. Any other steps that you take to optimize your HVAC system for Winter can be for naught without the proper insulation. If you have gaps or cracks in your windows or doors that let cold air in, find ways to plug them with caulking, weather stripping, or other methods. If applicable, insulating walls can actually pay for itself in fuel savings, and you cannot put a price on the additional comfort. Consider storm windows if applicable.
Cover The Outdoor AC Unit in The Fall & Winter
Place a protective cover over your outdoor AC unit once the weather changes and the unit is no longer required to provide cool air. Affordable covers designed for this purpose are available at most hardware stores. They keep moisture, snow, sleet and ice away from your unit while also preventing debris from collecting on the unit. This will help your air conditioning system to last and help avoid having to repair your AC or look at air conditioner replacement services prematurely.
Catch Problems Early With A Tune-Up
Nobody wants to have an emergency heating system repair issue! Be proactive and make sure your HVAC equipment is cleaned, updated, and well maintained. Tune-ups are done in part to identify potential problems and make necessary repairs before serious, expensive problems arise. Have your furnace inspected to find any signs of wear and tear that could compromise it during the winter months. Inspections should include a thorough cleaning, optimizing your furnace, heat pump system and/or AC unit so it runs at top efficiency. AnyWeather Heating & Air helps give you peace of mind with our Maintenance Plans. Service plans offer two free tune-ups a year, discounts, and priority appointments. Learn more about Maintenance Plans
AnyWeather Heating & Air Is The Best HVAC Contractor Company
AnyWeather Heating & Air is a licensed Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky AC & furnace HVAC company providing heater repairs, furnace & heat pump system services, and cooling system services to Greater Cincinnati, Tri-state area residents. Call us today to schedule a tune-up and inspection, or to address any issue with your HVAC system.
