While Arizona is known for its hot and dry summers, the winters can be equally brutal thanks to excessive cold. Preparing your furnace and heating systems for the winter will ensure that you’ll be warm inside, especially when the temperatures drop outside. The experts at AirZona have five helpful tips to prepare your heating system for winter conditions.
Tip #1: Schedule a Heating System Check Up
We highly recommend scheduling a furnace checkup with us. Our technicians will inspect your furnace and heating system to ensure it will function properly. Our expert technicians will clean and evaluate the heat exchange and check the exhaust flue. We will also examine the blower motor for signs of damage and lubricate the internal parts.
At the end of the inspection, your technician will alert you to any parts needing repair. We will also share information about the lifespan of your HVAC system.
Tip #2: Change the Filter
Your furnace has a filter that gathers small particles like dust, pet hair, allergens, and dirt. As the filter collects unwanted particles, it fills and eventually clogs. If the filter becomes clogged, it can permanently damage your furnace, so you’ll need a new unit. The best way to extend the life of your expensive HVAC system is to replace your filter every three months.
When you schedule your furnace checkup, our technicians can replace the filter. You could also buy filters at local hardware stores and replace them yourself. But if you buy the wrong one or don’t install it correctly, you will be spending more money than if you had requested our services. The customer service representatives at AirZona can help you choose the correct filter for your HVAC system.
Tip #3: Set Your Humidifier to Standby
Another tip to prepare your heating system for winter is related to your humidifier. The seasons in Arizona have dry air, so many homeowners have humidifiers installed in their HVAC systems. You should set yours to standby so that it automatically turns on when needed.
But if the humidifier is not working properly it won’t regulate the humidity levels as it should. This might lead to too much moisture in your house, causing mold and other unpleasant issues. So make sure to keep it in good working order.
Tip #4: Program Your Thermostat for the Winter Temperatures
In the summer, you set your thermostat to a comfortable level so the air conditioning turns on when needed. You do the same for the winter weather, but the temperature will be different. When you’re not at home, you can set your thermostat 10 to 15 degrees lower. This way you can save money on your utility bills and avoid wasting energy.
Sixty-eight degrees is the recommended temperature to balance comfort and energy savings. With a lower temperature setting, you can reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system, thus extending its life. If you get cold in your home, put on a sweatshirt, rather than changing your thermostat.
Tip #5: Cover Your Air Conditioning Unit
Many homeowners prepare their HVAC systems by covering their air conditioning units for the winter. Rather than using a tarp, consider covering your air conditioning unit with a trash barrel or wooden boards. The goal is to protect the fan from winter moisture so it is ready to go when the temperature skyrockets in the summer.
Prepare Your Heating System For Winter Today
No one wants to be surprised with a broken furnace on the first chilly night of the winter. So don’t forget to put these tips to prepare your heating system for winter in place. To ensure your heating system functions properly all winter, contact our experts at AirZona today. Our certified and experienced technicians are ready to help, so call us today to schedule a furnace checkup and learn about the correct filter for your heating system.