Winter is coming. (Signal Game of Thrones music.) While you probably won’t have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still critical to make sure your home is ready for the cold. Here are some suggestions from TML Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Near Air Returns
You won’t need cold air returns in the cold season right? Wrong. Make sure your air returns (the bigger vents) are not restricted and that air can flow smoothly through them. Your cold air returns are needed to help your heating equipment run efficiently.
Upgrade Your Windows
Windows are a usual way that heat can escape your home, so think about upgrading old or inefficient windows to help keep heat inside during the cooler months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With sick season nearing, you want to verify you’re doing anything you can to keep your family in good health. For the well-being of your indoor air, replace your furnace or duct air filter every quarter. This will also help your furnace run more efficiently and save you energy, which means saving you money on energy bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your heating equipment is older than 12 years, it’s most likely not nearly as energy-efficient as updated heating systems. Before the cold hits and you’re stuck with a failing furnace or high energy bills, discuss upgrading your system.
Buy a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not make sense when you hear it, but more humidity, more so in northern climates, can cause your home’s air to feel warmer than it actually is. Include the other benefits of less dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier could be the perfect addition to your heat and air system.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
We say it all the time – a programmable thermostat saves you energy and money no matter what season it is. A programmable thermostat will enable you to turn down your home temperature while you are at work to help lower heating costs, and raise the temperature before you even arrive home to yield the perfect amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the right amount of attic insulation helps retain heat during the winter, lowering your energy use because your heater doesn’t have to run as much, and therefore saves you money by decreasing your energy bills. Inquire with your local utility companies about rebates for upgrading or installing your attic insulation.
Insulate Plumbing
Insulating your hot water pipes can actually help increase the temperature two or three degrees. Hot water on a lower setting? That lowers your energy use and bills – yes, please!
Get a Furnace Tune-Up
Make sure your furnace is ready to keep your family warm and cozy all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from TML . Currently we are giving discounts on our fall tune ups to help make sure your family stays warm and safe through the winter. Call 208-488-4892 today to schedule your Precision tune-up or set up a no-charge in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating system.