With the cold season in full swing, you must prepare your HVAC system so it can handle the heavier output. A combination of DIY maintenance and help from an HVAC contractor will help you have a warm and comfortable winter without many service calls. The below guide shows what you should and shouldn’t do to prepare your HVAC system.

Do:

Change your filters regularly.

Since your HVAC system will be working hard during winter, the filter will clog with debris sooner than average. By changing it every month or so, you will keep air coming through swiftly, reducing wear and tear on your unit, while also lowering energy bills.

Schedule an early inspection.

The best practice is to have your HVAC contractor inspect it early in the season. That way, they can spot any warning signs soon and make adjustments quickly, helping avoid the need for emergency calls later in the winter.

Don’t: 

Ignore your gutters.

When you have an outdoor unit as part of your HVAC system, like with heat exchangers, pay extra attention to your gutters. If they are clogged, they won’t divert water from your home, leaving the possibility that it could enter the outdoor unit, where it can freeze and create a blockage. By regularly cleaning your gutters, you’ll avoid any obstructions.

Forget to seal holes & cracks.

To ensure that your HVAC unit doesn’t have a constant strain, keep as much warm air as possible in your home. Otherwise, your machine will have to work overtime to replace it. That means taking a close look around window and door frames for cracks, and recaulking or weatherstripping when appropriate.

If you haven’t had a winter inspection for your heating system, contact the HVAC contractors at Moeller Furnace. Based in Fort Dodge, IA, and serving surrounding areas such as Moorland, Barnum, and Badger, the professionals provide HVAC repairs and tuneups, so your units run at peak efficiency during the cold months. To receive a free estimate, call (515) 573-5831. Learn more about their services by visiting their website.