Winter preparations can involve furnace repairs, roof and attic insulation inspection, gutter cleaning, window recaulking, and more. Hoock’s Heating & Cooling provides furnace installation and HVAC system tune-ups for the coming season. Here are five steps to help you prepare your home for winter:
1. Schedule a HVAC System Inspection
Schedule a professional HVAC system inspection to ensure your heating system is operating efficiently and to extend the longevity of your heating system. Having a trained technician inspect the furnace, heat pump, or any other heating system allows for early detection of a problem before it causes a breakdown. Our professionals can repair or replace any damaged parts to make sure your system is operating efficiently and safely.
2. Replace Air Filters
HVAC filters are one of the key components to help prevent breakdowns. Any homes with pets may need to replace their filters more frequently. We encourage routine air quality inspections to verify proper air filtration and to prevent restricted airflow that can lead to mechanical failure. Make sure your filter is clean or replaced for your HVAC system to function accurately and avoid increasing energy bills before winter arrives.
3. Seal Air Leaks
Carefully inspect your windows and doors for any drafts and apply a new coat of caulk or weatherstripping to the exterior perimeter if necessary. Ensure that your home is properly insulated, especially in the attic. Proper insulation will help retain heat and reduce the workload of your HVAC system. If rooms vary in temperature or are colder than others, there may be a leak in the ventilation ducts. Proper inspection of your ductwork, registers, windows, doors, attics, and other areas is recommended to ensure proper insulation for the cold weather.
4. Gutter Maintenance
Maintaining clean gutters and downspouts prevents ice dams and other clogs from forming. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and ice buildup. Downspouts that are unable to direct water away from the foundation may allow for potential water damage.
5. Invest in a Humidifier
Cool weather brings with it dry air, especially when turning up the heat to keep your indoor living space warm. Too little humidity inside can affect your health and allow for dry, itchy skin, irritated sinuses, and persistent dry coughs. The installation of an automatic humidifier can improve your indoor air quality, as well as provide energy savings. A home lacking proper humidification often seems cooler than one with humidification, causing your home’s heating system to run more often. Our technicians can provide installations or repairs to help maintain consistent humidity levels throughout winter, keeping you comfortable and providing energy savings.
Bonus Tip: Emergency Preparedness
Be prepared ahead of winter weather. Make sure to stock up on winter essentials such as salt or ice melt, to keep walkways clear and prevent slips. Have an emergency kit with blankets, flashlights with new batteries, and non-perishable food in case of power outages. Consider installing a backup generator to ensure your HVAC system continues to function during power outages.
Heating Installation in Missouri
Hoock’s Heating & Cooling is your reliable partner for HVAC installations and repairs in Wentzville, MO, and surrounding areas. We can help diagnose any heating-related problem and provide cost effective solutions. We offer various services for furnaces, indoor air quality, and more. Contact us today for professional heating system maintenance and more on preparing your home for winter.