Winter transforms landscapes into wonderlands, but alongside its beauty and charm are challenges, particularly regarding comfort in homes. The winter season stresses HVAC systems, requiring homeowners to prioritize HVAC winter maintenance.
Routine checks are about preserving comfort and preventing costly repairs that neglected systems can cause. At Jolly Plumbing, we help ensure your HVAC system is 100% ready for the cold months.
Why Winter HVAC Maintenance Matters
HVAC winter maintenance is an investment that homeowners should never overlook. When you prepare your system for the season, it will run at its best, translating to lower utility bills and providing savings that you can use for other expenses.
You can also expect reduced HVAC system breakdowns, especially on the coldest days. A well-maintained system is less likely to malfunction, meaning you will not need emergency repair calls, which can be expensive and inconvenient.
Essential HVAC Winter Maintenance Tasks
How do you keep your HVAC system in good condition during cold weather? Here are four HVAC winter maintenance tasks to put on your to-do list.
Replace or Clean Air Filters
Dirt, dust, and debris can clog filters and obstruct airflow, forcing your system to work harder to maintain temperatures. Additionally, a dirty filter cannot effectively capture pollutants, which can trigger and worsen allergies or respiratory health issues.
Change your HVAC filters every one to three months for optimal system performance and healthy indoor air. Jolly Plumbing can handle AC repairs and maintenance, replacing filters and addressing other tasks to keep your system running smoothly.
Inspect and Clean Ductwork
Clogged ducts also restrict airflow, leaving some areas of your home cold while others overheat. Moreover, dust and allergens can circulate in your living space, compromising indoor air quality. Take these tips for your ductwork inspection and cleaning:
- Check for Visible Dust and Debris: Look into accessible sections of your ductwork for any accumulation of dust, dirt, or foreign objects.
- Assess for Gaps and Leaks: Use a flashlight to spot visible gaps, holes, or disconnected areas where air might escape.
- Look for Signs of Mold or Moisture: Check for signs of mold, water stains, or excess moisture around your ductwork, as these could point to a problem that impacts your indoor air.
- Hire a Professional: Work with an HVAC technician like Jolly Plumbing for thorough system checkups and cleaning.
Check Thermostat Settings
Ideally, set your thermostat between 68° F and 72° F if you are home during the day and 62° F to 66° F if everyone is away or asleep at night. This balance conserves energy without making your home feel chilly. You can utilize a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperatures according to your daily schedule automatically. For a more comprehensive evaluation of your AC system, schedule a system check with Jolly Plumbing.
Inspect the Furnace and Heat Pump
Besides your filters and ductwork, your furnace and heat pump work overtime when the weather is chilly. Give these components attention before the temperatures drop, following these steps:
- Step 1: Examine the Exterior. See if the exterior of the units has visible signs of rust, corrosion, or physical damage.
- Step 2: Check Electrical Connections. Secure all electrical connections and look for frayed wires or burned areas.
- Step 3: Inspect Belts and Components. Look at belts, bearings, and other moving parts for signs of wear or fraying.
- Step 4: Look for Blockages. Verify that there are no obstructions in and around the equipment.
- Step 5. Assess Vents and Ducts. Confirm that the intake and exhaust vents are free from blockages and damage.
If you have older or inefficient units, hand them over to Jolly Plumbing. Our replacement services can provide you with a new furnace or heat pump capable of serving you better for longer.
When to Call a Professional for Winter HVAC Maintenance
Many HVAC winter maintenance aspects are manageable without professional help. However, if you hear unusual noises or observe poor heating performance, contact HVAC experts for prompt solutions. These signs could indicate issues beyond the basic maintenance tasks, and handling them yourself might not be safe or effective.
For Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky homeowners, Jolly Plumbing is eager to ensure your HVAC system’s health. Contact us online to schedule an appointment.
Final Thoughts
It is always better to know that your HVAC system is prepared to keep your household warm during winter rather than discover that it cannot do so when you need it the most. With proper HVAC winter maintenance, all you have to do is look forward to the snowy days and enjoy them when they arrive.
At Jolly Plumbing, our shop offers various parts and products for HVAC care. Whenever the installation or repair is beyond your capabilities, our professional and experienced technicians are on standby. ‘Tis the season to be jolly with Jolly Plumbing!
