Nov 04 2014

As you prepare for Thanksgiving, don’t forget to take care of your home heating system. Fall is the right time to invest in routine HVAC maintenance to head off problems during the winter. Follow these tips and your heating system will thank you by using less energy and leaving more money in your holiday budget.

Check the Filters

Dirty filters block airflow and force your system to work harder and use more fuel to heat your home. Get more out of every heating dollar by checking the filters every month. Keep a supply of disposable filters on hand for quick replacement or invest in environmentally friendly washable filters. Set up a monthly alert on your calendar to help you remember to check the filters.

Clear the Vents

Move furniture and drapes away from floor and baseboard vents and air returns. Blocking the vents reduces the efficiency and overall effectiveness of your home heating system.

Program the Thermostat

Review the settings on your thermostat to take advantage of regular hours that your home is empty by lowering the heat. For additional savings, throw an extra blanket on your bed and knock down the temperature overnight. If your thermostat isn’t programmable or doesn’t have enough options, consider upgrading. Basic models are inexpensive and easy to install. If you want more flexibility from a premium thermostat or don’t feel comfortable with DIY, our certified technicians are happy to help with installation and a full demonstration of the features.

Hunt for Leaks

Leaky doors and windows allow expensive heated air to escape and cold drafts to creep inside. Use weather-stripping, caulk or expanding foam insulation to seal gaps and banish leaks. Take your hunt into the attic and check out your home’s ductwork. Consider professional repair and sealing if you see or feel leaks in the ducting. Faulty ductwork can reduce energy efficiency by 20 percent or more, according to Energy Star, so repairing leaks can add up to real money.

Schedule a Tune-Up

Your heating system works hard keeping you comfortable for months on end. The very best thing you do in return is to provide a seasonal checkup with a certified HVAC technician. Our techs work through a maintenance checklist to ensure your system is in good repair and ready for winter. We clean the components, check connections and look for worn parts. After the inspection and service, we provide a report on the status of the equipment and alert you to any problems.

The experts at Energy Star confirm that preventive maintenance and other basic upkeep reduces monthly heating costs, improves efficiency and contributes to a longer operating life. Don’t delay: Winter is just around the corner. Contact us at Watley Heating and Air Conditioning today to set up your appointment for routine HVAC maintenance in your Columbus, Georgia, area home.