Winter’s low temperatures make it the most important season for your heating system to operate at its best. The HVAC unit’s efficiency has implications for your family’s comfort and for the size of your utility bill at the end of each month. Here’s a guide to help your system thrive over the cold season. 

Strategies for Improving HVAC Energy Efficiency 

1. Check Your Windows

Aging windows are a major source of heat loss. Conduct a brief visual survey of the frames — do you notice cracks or gaps? Do you feel a draft near the glass? Gather caulking supplies from your local hardware store and fortify your windows so no more warm air can escape. With a better barrier, your HVAC unit won’t have to work as hard. 

2. Regularly Replace the Air Filter

To keep your HVAC machine running smoothly, swap out the air filter once a month. Over time, dust and detritus will build up in the filter, making it tougher for air to pass through. Eventually, your machine will have to use extra energy to circulate warm air, lowering efficiency. To help you remember this task, pick a specific day to do it, like the first or last day of every month. 

3. Schedule a Professional Inspection

To achieve maximum efficiency, you’ll need the help of an expert. A skilled technician will inspect your unit from top to bottom, adding necessary lubrication, tightening loose screws, and replacing any problematic parts. While switching out the air filter is helpful, the rest of the furnace gets dirty too, and a professional will remove grime to up the efficiency. 

If you haven’t had a professional HVAC technician inspect your heating system yet this winter, reach out to a trusted team like B&B Plumbing & Heating in Oxford, OH. Serving the community since 1985, the licensed crew offers everything from standard maintenance checks to spot furnace repairs if needed. The veteran staff is available for 24/7 emergency service, so don’t hesitate to call (513) 523-4010 if there’s a problem. Learn more about the plumber’s HVAC offerings by visiting their website.