As fall comes to an end and winter quickly approaches, you will want to take the necessary steps to winterize your home. This is best done before the winter weather hits full force.
Making certain that your HVAC unit is prepared for winter will go a long way in reducing cold winter drafts and also increases the lifespan of your unit. Winterizing your unit will also prevent uncalled for services.
There are few steps you will need to follow to winterize your HVAC unit.
Clean the Area
You will want to clean your HVAC unit and the area around it of all fallen leaves and debris. Not only does this improve the look of your home, it also protects your system from ruin or breakage. A tidy unit will make the winterization process much easier.
Disconnect and Cover your Unit
Unplugging your unit will not only allow it to take a few months off, but could also possibly save on your electric services. Even if your air conditioner is turned off it could still accidentally sneak on and steal electricity from your home.
Once unplugged you should cover the unit to protect it from ice, wind, and snow damage. Central air conditioners are pretty tough, but some components just do not respond well to the cold.
Seal your Ducts
Making sure that your air conditioning and heating vents are sealed off for the winter will help in eliminating drafts in the home. Keeping the cold air out improves the efficiency of your furnace in turn saving money on utility services.
It is recommended by the US Department of Energy to use mastic tape, foil tape, or any other heat-resistant tape to seal your ducting.
Winterizing your HVAC system will increase its lifespan and improve its overall productivity, therefore saving you money again on those unnecessary services. In just a few quick steps your home will be ready for the cold months every year.