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As the weather gets colder, your HVAC system needs more attention than simply turning the heat on. To stay cozy all winter and keep your utility bills as low as possible, your system and home need a little TLC. If you want the transition to go smoothly so that you don’t run into any problems, follow these tips.

5 Checklist Items to Get Ready for Winter

1. Install a Programmable Thermostat 

With a programmable thermostat, you can set the temperature in your home exactly the way you want it. Program a specific temperature at a certain time of day and a different temperature at other times, depending on your work and sleep schedule. 

Having complete control over your HVAC system can help you save money on your monthly energy bill. Not only will you be able to stop setting the temperature manually each time, but you’ll also be able to have the exact amount of coziness you want when you get home. 

2. Change the Filter

Your furnace likely relies on the same air filter as your air conditioner. The filter collects dust, pollutants, and allergens so they’re not distributed through your home, and the improved airflow they promote helps your system avoid working harder than it should.

The recommended schedule for a new filter is every three months. Once every four to six weeks is a wiser choice if you have pets that shed or family members with asthma or respiratory problems.

3. Increase Humidity 

A whole-house humidifier will maintain a healthy indoor environment. There’s not as much need to worry about dry skin, itchy eyes, or irritated sinuses in warm, humid weather, but the dry air of winter can cause those problems. To keep you comfortable as you switch from AC to heating, set a humidifier to a level of about 40%. 

Small humidifiers meant for a single room are beneficial as an alternative, but be sure to clean them every few days or according to the manufacturer’s recommendation. 

4. Check Insulation 

HVAC systemTo ensure the warm air emitted by your heater doesn’t escape the home—and the cold doesn’t find its way inside—examine your windows and doors. Caulk any cracks you find or apply new weatherstripping if needed.

An insulated home will retain heat far more effectively, which is good for your comfort level and energy bill. 

5. Get Professional Maintenance 

There may be unknown issues with your HVAC system. Have a professional technician clean your furnace and burners, check that everything is functioning correctly, and make any necessary heating repairs before you become reliant on your system when true winter arrives.  

 

For expert assistance in getting your HVAC system ready to handle the cold weather, contact A&B Heating & Air Conditioning in Cincinnati, OH. Whether you need maintenance or repairs or want to install something entirely new, their licensed technicians are available 24/7 to help. See for yourself how they earned approval from the Better Business Bureau® by calling them today at (859) 525-0100 or learning more about their services online

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