What Regular Checks Should You Make To Your HVAC In The Winter?

Key Takeaways:

• Check your thermostat settings to make sure they are optimized for winter weather.
• Inspect and clean your HVAC unit’s exterior to remove debris or obstructions.
• Make sure your circuit breaker is functioning correctly.
• Clean your vents to improve airflow and efficiency.
• By regularly checking and maintaining these aspects of your HVAC system, you can ensure that it will continue running effectively during the colder months.
• Don’t forget to schedule a professional maintenance checklist as well!
• Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer offers plumbing and HVAC services to customers in Evanston, IL, and the surrounding areas.

It’s winter, and you’re probably not thinking about your HVAC unit, but you should! Even though your air conditioner isn’t running right now, it’s essential to maintain it regularly to run smoothly when summer rolls around. Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer will discuss what you need to do to keep your HVAC running smoothly in the winter. Keep reading for more tips!

Why Should You Run Your Air Conditioner in winter?

1. Save You Money

If you live in a climate where it gets cold in the winter, running your air conditioner can save you money on your heating bill. The air conditioner will help keep your home warm by circulating the air and keeping the temperature consistent.

2. Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Another benefit of running your HVAC in winter is that it can improve your indoor air quality. The air conditioner will filter out any dust, pollen, or other allergens in your home.

3. Prevent Condensation and Mold Growth

It can help prevent condensation and mold growth. The air conditioner will circulate the air and keep the humidity level low, preventing condensation from forming on surfaces in your home.

4. Make Your Home More Comfortable

Running your HVAC in winter can make your home more comfortable. The air conditioner will circulate the air and keep the temperature consistent, making it feel warmer than if you didn’t have an air conditioner running.

5. Reduce Static Electricity

Running your air conditioner in winter can reduce static electricity. The air conditioner will circulate the air and keep the humidity level low, reducing static electricity build-up in your home.

6. Prolong the Life of Your Furnace

Running your HVAC in winter can prolong the life of your furnace. The furnace won’t have to work as hard to maintain a consistent temperature in your home if you have an air conditioner running.

7. Reduce Noise Pollution

It can reduce noise pollution. The air conditioner will circulate the sound waves and dampen them, reducing noise pollution in your home.

8. Security for Seniors and Young Children

Running your HVAC in winter can provide security for seniors and young children vulnerable to hypothermia. The air conditioner will circulate the warm air and keep their body temperatures consistent, preventing them from becoming too cold.

Also, read our blog on what to expect during residential HVAC maintenance.

A Winter HVAC Checklist: Things You Need to Do to Keep Your HVAC Running Smoothly

1. Check the Air Filter

The most important thing you can do to keep your HVAC running smoothly inwinter is to check the air filter. The air filter is responsible for trapping dirt, dust, and other airborne particles. If it becomes clogged, it can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC unit. Remove it from the HVAC unit to check your air filter and hold it to light. If you can see the light passing through the filter, it is still clean and does not need to be replaced. However, if the filter is dark or covered in debris, it should be replaced with a new one.

2. Inspect Your HVAC Unit

Another important thing you need to do is inspect your HVAC unit for any signs of damage or wear. Look for cracks or holes in the unit and any loose wires. Additionally, ensure that all the components are securely fastened and that there is no build-up of dirt or dust on any of the parts. If you notice any damage or wear, it is best to contact a professional HVAC repair technician for further assistance.

3. Clean Your HVAC Unit

In addition to inspecting your HVAC unit for damage, you must clean it regularly. Dirt and dust can build up on the coils and other unit components, reducing their efficiency. To clean your HVAC unit, turn it off and remove any dirt or debris accumulated on the coils and other parts. You can use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove any build-up without damaging the unit.

4. Replace the Thermostat Batteries

If your HVAC unit is not working correctly, one of the first things you should check is the batteries in your thermostat. The thermostat controls the temperature in your home, and if the batteries are dead, it will not be able to regulate the temperature properly. To replace the batteries in your thermostat, remove the old ones and insert new ones in their place.

5. Check the Circuit Breaker

Another potential cause of an HVAC unit not working correctly is a tripped circuit breaker. The circuit breaker controls the flow of electricity to your HVAC unit, and if it trips, it will cut off power to the unit. To check your circuit breaker, locate it in your home’s fuse box and reset it if necessary.

6. Clean the Vents

Another important thing you need to do to keep your HVAC running smoothly is to clean your vents. Vents can become clogged with dirt, dust, and other debris over time, restricting airflow and reducing the efficiency of your HVAC unit. To clean your ducts, remove them from their respective rooms and vacuum out any debris that has accumulated inside them.

Click here to learn more about maintaining your air conditioner.

Need HVAC Services in Evanston, IL?

If you’re looking for HVAC repair or maintenance services, we recommend calling Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer. We have years of experience providing top-notch plumbing and HVAC services to homeowners and businesses in the Evanston area. We’re confident that we can provide you with the quality care you need to keep your home or office comfortable all year round. Plus, our team is always up for a challenge; if something unexpected needs to be done, we’ll take on the project without batting an eyelash. So what are you waiting for? Get your project estimate today!

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