Your home’s HVAC system is one of the main components protecting you and your family from the cold winter nights looming on the horizon. Heating your home and producing hot water are usually the largest utility expenses a home can incur. Improper maintenance and neglect of your HVAC system can not only cost you money in repairs and higher utility bills, but could potentially leave you out in the cold during those notorious Buffalo winters.
HVAC Maintenance
Get your home “winter ready” with these HVAC maintenance tips:
Replace the Filter
One of the most important maintenance tasks in your HVAC system is also one of the easiest and takes less than a minute: change your filter! The air filter catches contaminants such as dust and dirt, pollen, mold/mold spores, hair, animal fur, and plaster/wood particles to ensure the air you breathe is clean.
Not only does a dirty air filter put your family’s health at risk, it reduces air flow and creates unnecessary stress on your system. The harder something has to work the more it’s going to cost you. Your air filter should be checked every month and replaced every one to three months, depending on how dirty it is.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat should be on the top of the list of economical modern solutions. Many homeowners forget to turn down the thermostat when they leave for an extended period of time. When your home is empty for 8 hours while you’re at work and the kids are at school, you are essentially burning money by heating your home to the same degree as when it’s full.
Invest in a new thermostat that automatically adjusts the temperature in your home according to a schedule you set. Set the temperature higher during the morning and evenings, then lower it while your home is empty or while you’re sleeping. Modern “smart” systems can be controlled from your smartphone and learn from your usage to optimize your system.
Consult a Professional
Western New York winters can be unforgiving, causing severe stress on your home and sending your energy costs through the roof. If you notice rattling or grinding noises that weren’t there before or leaks around your water heater, don’t let these problems escalate. If your system is old or not performing correctly, have a professional (like The Plumber) inspect it before the seasons change. Even if a replacement is required, it’s better to have service work done while the weather is still forgiving. Plus, newer high-efficiency HVAC systems can reduce energy usage by up to 40%, saving you money for years to come!
HVAC Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance
This winter, don’t get left out in the cold. Your HVAC system should be inspected every year to ensure that it stands up to the weather. Here at The Plumber we are available to inspect, repair, and replace your HVAC system. Give us a call at (716) 894-4382 to schedule your next service.
