Winter is coming, as they were fond of saying on HBO’s Game of Thrones. With colder weather, this season brings additional expenses toward heating and staying comfortable indoors. If you have been ignoring your HVAC’s health, you could be in for difficult days ahead.
Maintaining a house is already expensive, but failing to do it systematically or regularly can be a significant financial drain. A recent CNET survey found that over 60% of US adults are already stretching their budgets to pay their energy bills for the winter.
HVAC systems have a sly way of developing problems without routine maintenance and care. From faulty components to terrifyingly steep bills, there’s a lot that could go wrong if you ignore these units.
Here are four tips to spruce up your home’s HVAC systems in a budget-friendly manner.
1. Schedule an HVAC Inspection Before Winter Sets In Fully
Many HVAC problems are not apparent until they become serious. For example, your air filters may be clogged, leading to restricted airflow. It compels your system to work harder and consume extra energy. It also makes internal components more likely to fail prematurely.
When you are in the depths of winter, it can be hard to function without essential temperature management. It is particularly challenging for homes with infants or senior adults with acute health problems.
The UK’s Centre for Sustainable Energy notes that cold homes can lead to problems such as high blood pressure and pneumonia. It can also exacerbate existing conditions, including arthritis and poor mental health.
Consider scheduling a preventive inspection before the cold days arrive and cozy up for several months. A professional team will be able to check for hidden issues, such as oil leaks or a misaligned blower belt.
The US Department of Energy recommends that the professional also verify your unit’s electric control sequence. This will check that the heating and cooling systems don’t operate together.
2. Upgrade HVAC, When Needed, According to Local Conditions
Some areas may face the brunt of inclement weather more than others. In the US, while some states, such as Florida, enjoy consistent warmth throughout the year, others have frigid and difficult winters.
For instance, cities like Greenville, South Carolina, are already experiencing snow flurries. Many residents are reporting that cold days are in full swing, with advisories about winter storms and freeze warnings beginning to come up.
According to Air Today Heating & Cooling, homeowners should prioritize maintaining or installing the perfect heating system that matches their needs and budget. If you feel the need to invest in a new furnace or heat pump, seek competitive pricing and financing options, such as flexible plans that reduce upfront payments.
Although an upgrade decision may seem expensive at first, it can be the best thing for sustainable heating and improved energy efficiency for your household.
3. Ensure Your Indoor Ductwork Does Not Waste Energy
Another aspect you should consider in HVAC upkeep is the ductwork. It is essential for maintaining the optimum temperature throughout your home by regulating the airflow. When installed and maintained adequately, it can lower energy waste and also your bills.
Most commonly, ducts get clogged or dirty during the year. Trapped debris can cause noisy, inefficient operation. Over time, ducts can develop gaps or leaks. These may need fixing or replacement.
Fixing the ductwork should be part of your winter preparation to-do list so it does not become a serious drain on your home’s energy resources.
Some families also consider switching to ductless systems. Environment America notes that they can cost 20% more than conventional ducted systems but prove more energy-efficient over time. Another option is to pick a hybrid arrangement, using a centrally ducted system and mini-split heads.
4. Take Preventive Steps to Keep Your HVAC Running Smoothly All Year
Blame it on a human tendency to get wrapped up in the everyday, but we often turn our attention to vital issues at the last minute. While heating becomes a prerogative in winter, there are steps we should take consistently to keep our residential HVAC unit shipshape.
The most obvious step is to change air filters frequently, ideally once every three months. It is essential to optimize the airflow and avoid systemic inefficiencies. Similarly, the air vents must not be blocked by furniture or other random items that collect on busy days. It can make temperature management less efficient, which does not bode well for costs.
In the run-up to winter, consider the solutions you plan to use for comfortable heating.
Do you have more space heaters than is optimal? USA Today notes that space heaters are a primary cause of fires, especially when run for prolonged periods. They can also be energy hogs. To use a space heater safely, consider products that have safety switches.
It may also be time to explore other options, like heat pumps, which can maintain a comfortable temperature in the house without these risks.
That seems like quite a lot of prep work to get ready for a season of festivities!
Well, winter is also a time of hardship for many families around the world, particularly amid rising prices and socio-political turbulence. Such preparation may just be mandatory to avoid more expensive issues from arising as the mercury dips lower. Stay warm.
