Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and the air outside has turned crisp and cool. That can only mean one thing… winter is on its way!
Here in North Texas, where winter paints a picturesque but bone-chilling canvas, it’s very important that you get your home ready for the upcoming season. Here are a few suggestions to help you with this annual task!
Switch and Save
As Jack Frost comes nipping at your nose, take a moment to confirm that your thermostat has switched from its summer duties to its winter responsibilities.
It’s a straightforward task: simply adjust your thermostat a few degrees above room temperature and listen for the comforting hum of your furnace as it springs into action.
If you don’t hear that familiar sound, check the connections first to ensure your system has power. Then, give us a quick call at Empire Heating & Air. We’ll be happy to stop by and check it out!
Ceiling Fan Flip
Did you know your ceiling fans can spin both ways? During the summer, your fans should be spinning counter-clockwise to circulate the cool air from your AC downward into the room.
Once winter arrives, you want to flip a little switch on your fan to reverse the direction of the blades. Since warm air rises, your fan will create an updraft to circulate the heat effectively. This helps warm the room and thus reduces the strain on your heating system.
Cover It Up
While the DFW area may not see a ton of heavy snowfall, even an inch or two can impact your AC unit. Covering your outdoor unit is a smart move to shield it from winter’s icy grip.
Ensure that the power to the unit is off to prevent any unexpected starts during unseasonably warm days. This simple step can extend the life of your equipment and save you from potential repair costs.
Change Your Filter. Often.
You might be tired of hearing about air filters. Still, this seemingly insignificant component plays a vital role in the function of your HVAC system.
Your air filter guards against particulates in the air and helps improve your indoor air quality. With the changing seasons, we cannot stress heavily enough that you need to replace your air filter every month. This is especially important if your household includes furry friends.
In fact, why not pause now and replace it for peace of mind?
The Ducts Directive
If your home were a living organism, its veins would be the air ducts that transport warm air from your furnace to every corner of your home. As your home ages, these ducts may deteriorate, leading to punctures, dust accumulation, or even the dangerous threat of mold.
While some issues may be visible to the naked eye, it’s always wise to have Empire Heating & Air provide a professional inspection. We ensure that the warmth flowing through your home is as pure as the winter air is cold.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
The silent menace of carbon monoxide requires unwavering vigilance. Regular testing of your CO detectors is paramount to ensuring your family’s safety.
As you huddle indoors to escape winter’s chill, your chimney may pose a subtle threat to your home’s air quality. An annual inspection is more than a precaution; it’s the most effective defense against the silent buildup of carbon.
How’s Your Insulation?
Is your attic much colder than your home? If so, you have to make sure that air is not seeping into your home and putting extra strain on your furnace.
Empire Heating & Air recommends that your attic has an R-value of 49. This will help serve as a protective barrier to keep warmth where it belongs—inside your home.
If your attic’s insulation is over a decade old or if you suspect it’s less than adequate, give us a call. We can help you determine how much insulation you need to prevent losing your heat.
Crank It Up
Before the full brunt of winter sets in, take a moment to give your heating system a “dress rehearsal”. Turn on your furnace at full blast and confirm that everything is working the way it should. Knowing your home will be warm and comfortable when it truly matters will offer peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Now, as the leaves surrender to the wind and winter’s whispers grow stronger, it’s your cue to take action.
Give us a call today at (682) 233-3367 and allow us to run through a winter checklist with you. Ensuring your HVAC is ready for the cold will help keep you and your family warm, with the added bonus of helping lower the energy bill.
With Empire Heating & Air, you’ll be ready to embrace winter’s beauty, snug and warm within your well-prepared home.