The importance of Winterizing your HVAC system

Your HVAC system is the one that has the most maintenance needs and it’s important to winterize it before the cold weather hits.

WHY:

Save on energy bills

According to the Department of Energy, taking good care of your HVAC system can reduce energy usage by up to 25 percent. 

Prevents rust and other damage

You may need to safeguard your system against snow, ice and other damaging effects of winter.

Keep critters out

When the weather gets colder, rodents and other wildlife look for someplace warm to settle in and nest. You don’t want that place to be your HVAC unit.

HOW:

Clean your HVAC unit

When you have an outside unit for your central air HVAC system, it’s easy for it to get dirty during the spring and summer seasons. Clear any dirt, debris, twigs, etc. from around the unit. Cut back any weeds or vines that have grown around it. You may also want to spray it with your hose to remove any dust or soil. Just be careful that you don’t damage the fans or any other parts, as then it will not operate as effectively. Then, allow it to dry.

Inside your home, the grills and ducts are just as vital. To get ready for winter, you should remove the grill and wipe around the edges in the opening. The vents should also be cleaned before you put them back. This is also a great way to make the air in your home cleaner with fewer allergens.

Cover the unit

A lot can happen to your HVAC unit during the winter. Heavy winds, snow, freezing rain, and cold temperatures can all serve to wreak havoc on your system. To avoid this, it could be wise to purchase a cover for it. These can be found at most home improvement or hardware stores. If it’s not possible for you to buy one, you can also cover your HVAC unit with a tarp and weigh it down with stones. Taking these steps will help prevent moisture and dirt from entering and possibly damaging your HVAC system.

Putting a piece of plywood, the same size of your unit, on top can serve the same function. It can prevent the accumulation of more dirt and dust. Setting something heavy on top of the plywood, like a brick or stones, will keep it from blowing away.

Change your HVAC filters.

If dust, debris, and allergens get into your HVAC unit, it can clog the system and decrease its efficiency. It diminishes airflow and forces your system to work harder to keep you warm or cool. Additionally, you are setting yourself up for costly repairs down the line as all that dirt finds its way into the machinery and causes problems. 

Changing your filters is one of the least expensive ways to keep your system running smoothly but it is also easy to forget. This important job should be done about every three or four months. You can remind yourself by thinking a change of seasons, change the filters. 

Of course, it’s vital to have your system inspected and tuned up as part of regular preventative maintenance. That way, if there are any repairs that need to be done, they can be completed before the weather turns really cold.