Predictions for winter in our region are for a mild winter to start with, but then revving up to be much colder later in the season. The fact is, we never know what will happen, but it’s always a good idea to be ready for the worst.
So here are a few tips for getting your HVAC system ready now for early winter problems.
Air Leaks
Air leaks around your home can let out your heated air and allow cold air to migrate inside, compromising your heating efforts and costing you more on your energy bill. Defeat air leaks by walking around your home with a lit incense stick; if the smoke wavers around door and window frames, baseboards, electric plugs, the attic hatch or recessed lighting, you have a leak. Fix leaks with weatherstripping, caulk and insulation.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
Whenever you schedule your annual furnace inspection make sure the HVAC technician checks the thermostat to ensure it is functioning properly, and that the system is reaching temperature set points.
Frozen Pipes
If your pipes freeze regularly, address the situation by:
- Wrapping pipes in insulation or heat tape,
- Leaving cabinet doors open at night so heat circulates inside,
- Turning up the heat so your home is warmer,
- Leaving cold water trickling from the faucet so pipes won’t freeze.
Decreased Air Flow
This can be caused for varied reasons but the most common cause is a dirty air filter. Change the air filter regularly to avoid early winter problems. Also, check dampers and make sure they are open.
Cold Spots in the Home
Cold spots may happen for a number of reasons, from leaking ductwork to a heating system that is not properly sized for the home. Have your technician check ducts for leaks and fix them as needed. Ask if the heating system is properly sized; if so, you may want to install a zoned system so you can adjust heating as needed throughout the home.
To prevent or address these early winter problems, contact Energy 1 Heating and Air Conditioning of Lorain.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 440-201-2959.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area