In order to stay warm during the winter months, you’re likely using heating and air frequently, which presents certain challenges for your HVAC system. It often has to work hard against the elements of the season to meet your demands. To make sure that it remains in good shape for the rest of the year as well, you’ll need to be aware of how to take care of it in winter. 

What Causes HVAC Problems During the Winter 

It’s common for seasonal debris to clog HVAC systems, blocking the path for heating and air to enter your home. In the winter, such debris may include dust, dirt, and leaves left over from the fall. These items could also fill up the air filters, which affects the air quality. It also forces your system to labor especially hard to keep your home heated according to your preferences. The same can be said of keeping the system turned on more often than necessary. 

Why It’s Crucial to Take Preventative Steps 

When these problems occur, your HVAC system has more difficulty functioning properly. This could cause your energy bill to skyrocket, reflecting the extra work it puts into providing heating and air. At some point, the HVAC system may get so overworked that it will break down. In that case, you would need to call an HVAC contractor for heating repair or installation of a new system.  

How to Keep Your HVAC Healthy During the Winter 

One of the first steps you should take is to check the vents. If you find some debris, remove it yourself, but if there is a substantial accumulation and you can’t comfortably reach it, ask an HVAC contractor to vacuum it out for you. This way, there will be nothing obstructing heating and airflow. 

For a similar reason, examine the air filter. Most air filters need to be changed every two or three months or whenever they become caked with dust and dirt particles. You can buy new air filters at many department stores and change them yourself, but an HVAC contractor will gladly help. 

Additionally, install a programmable thermostat if you don’t already have one. This will allow you to set your HVAC system to automatically maintain certain temperatures throughout the day, depending on when you’re home or asleep. By ensuring that your system isn’t on when you don’t need it, you’ll prevent it from working itself to the point of breakage. 

To ensure that you’ll get the heating and air you need this winter, contact Apollo Refrigeration to provide a professional inspection and necessary repairs. Based in Hamden, CT, they’ve provided high-quality and affordable air and heating services to the area for more than 40 years. Besides keeping your HVAC system in good shape, they can also help with refrigeration maintenance. Set up a visit today by calling (203) 777-6291 or visiting them online to browse their services.