As winter approaches and homeowners across the nation are preparing for temperatures to plummet, it’s time to make sure your HVAC system is up to the task. Our checklist below is a great place to get started.
The Benefits of Regular Maintenance
While maintenance isn’t the most glamorous aspect of homeownership, it’s one of the most important. Failure to maintain your home’s structure and appliances can lead to costly breakdowns and premature replacement. This is particularly true when it comes to your HVAC system. There are also a lot of benefits to properly maintaining your heating and cooling equipment, like:
- Improved energy efficiency
- Extended system lifespan
- Superior home comfort
- Better indoor air quality
- Lower utility bills
- Fewer repairs
Your Winter HVAC Maintenance Checklist
Inspect your ducts and seal any air leaks.
Start by inspecting your HVAC ducts for any signs of damage, leaks, or disconnections. Properly sealed and insulated ducts are essential to prevent warm air from escaping into unused spaces.
Check your furnace ignition system.
If you have a furnace, its ignition system should be inspected at the start of the winter season to make sure it’s in good working condition. Look for any loose or frayed wires, check the pilot light or ignition system, and clean the burners if necessary.
Test and calibrate your thermostat controls.
A malfunctioning thermostat can make your home uncomfortable and raise your electric bills. It’s a good idea to test your thermostat before the weather gets really cold to make sure it’s accurately reading and regulating the temperature inside your space. If you continue to have problems, you may need to recalibrate it with the help of a qualified HVAC professional.
Check and replace smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
More home fires happen during the winter than any other season due to home heating equipment. Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly to make sure they work properly. Replace the batteries and test the devices to confirm they will function as intended in the case of an emergency.
Winterize your outdoor condenser.
If you have an outdoor condenser unit, proper winterization can prevent weather damage and extend the life of your system. Remove any debris like leaves or branches and protect the unit from the elements with a tarp or special cover until spring.
Clean or replace your air filters.
Your air filters can make or break your indoor air quality. Make sure you’re checking and cleaning or replacing your filters before they accumulate too much dirt, dust, and pet hair.
Common Winter HVAC Problems to Watch Out For
Bitterly cold temperatures can cause issues even for systems that are in good condition. Beyond regular maintenance, it’s important to be aware of the most common winter HVAC problems and what you can do to mitigate them.
- Frozen pipes and coils. If you have a central HVAC system, your outdoor condenser is susceptible to freezing, especially if it’s not adequately insulated. Make sure it’s properly insulated to reduce the chances of this happening.
- Uneven heating. Old HVAC systems tend to heat more inefficiently than newer ones, which can cause hot and cold spots throughout your home.
- Reduced airflow. Restricted airflow is often a result of dirty or clogged air filters. Your system works harder in the winter, so your air filters need to be clean to prevent overheating or shutdown.
- Unusual noises. Unless you have a whisper-quiet ductless system, some noise is to be expected. But if you hear unusual or loud sounds like banging, clanging, or screeching, this could be caused by loose components that can damage your system.
- Frequent cycling. If your system shuts off and turns on too frequently, your system may not be properly sized for your space. This is what makes it so important to work with an HVAC professional when selecting and installing a new system.
N.E.T.R., Inc. — Your Trusted HVAC Partner Since 1989
For more than three decades, N.E.T.R., Inc. has proudly provided the greater Boston area with innovative technology and reliable heating and cooling services they can count on. Our team of veteran Mitsubishi Electric Elite Diamond contractors are always ready to install, maintain, and repair your HVAC system with precision and care, so you can have peace of mind in your home comfort.
Contact our team today to learn more or to schedule your maintenance visit by dialing (781) 933-6387 or fill our short web form and we’ll be happy to get back to you as soon as possible.
