Winter is coming. (Cue Game of Thrones theme.) While you shouldn’t have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still critical to make sure your home is all set for the cold. Here are a few suggestions from Knochelmann Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Surrounding 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 easily into them. Your cold air returns are needed to help your furnace run efficiently.
Upgrade Your Windows
Windows are a common way that heat can escape your home, so contemplate upgrading old or inefficient windows to help keep heat inside during the winter months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With allergy and cold season quickly approaching, you want to make sure you’re doing all you can to keep your family in good health. For the sake 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 10 years, it’s most likely not nearly as energy-efficient as upgraded equipment. Before the winter hits and you’re stuck with a faulty furnace or high energy bills, think about investing in an upgraded system.
Purchase a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not sound right, but more humidity, more so in northern climates, can result in your home’s air feeling warmer than it is. Include the other benefits of decreasing dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier may be the ideal addition to your heating system.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
We say it all the time – a programmable thermostat decreases your energy use and bills no matter what time of year it is. A programmable thermostat will enable you to decrease your home temperature while you are at work to help reduce heating costs, and raise the temperature before you even get home to provide the perfect amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the correct amount of attic insulation helps keep heat from escaping during the winter, decreasing your energy usage because your heating system doesn’t have to operate as much, and therefore saves you money on heating bill. Inquire with your local utility companies about rebates on installing or upgrading your home’s insulation.
Wrap Plumbing
If you insulate your hot water pipes, it can actually help raise the temperature a couple of degrees. Warmer water on a cooler setting? That saves you energy and money – 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 Knochelmann . Right now we are providing discounts on our seasonal tune ups to help make sure your home stays warm and safe through the winter. Call 859-905-0834 today to schedule your heating tune-up or set up a complimentary in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating system.