Winter is coming. (In comes Game of Thrones music.) While you probably won’t have to prepare quite the same way the Starks and Lannisters will, it’s still essential to make sure your home is all set for the cold. Here are a few tips from Rolf Griffin Service Experts to get you started.
Clear Space Near Air Returns
You shouldn’t need cold air returns in the cooler months right? Wrong. Verify your air returns (the bigger vents) are not blocked and that air can easily flow through them. Your cold air returns are necessary to help your heating equipment run efficiently.
Update Your Windows
Windows are a usual way that heat can escape your home, so think about updating old or inefficient windows to help retain heat inside during the cooler months.
Replace Your Home’s Air Filters
With allergy and cold season nearing, you want to verify you’re doing anything you can to keep your family in good health. For the sake of your indoor air, replace your furnace or duct air filter every few months. This will also help your furnace run more efficiently and save you energy, which means saving you money on heating bills.
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Heating System
If your furnace is older than 12 years, it’s probably not nearly as energy-efficient as upgraded heating systems. Before the cold hits and you’re stuck with a faulty furnace or high energy bills, think about replacing your system.
Invest in a Whole-Home Humidifier
It may not sound right, but more humidity, especially in northern climates, can result in your home’s air feeling warmer than it is. Add the other benefits of less dry skin and static, and a whole-home humidifier could be the ideal addition to your heating system.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
We say it all the time – a programmable thermostat decreases your energy use and bills no matter what time of year it is. A programmable thermostat will let you lower your home temperature while you are at work to help reduce heating costs, and raise the temperature before you even make it home to provide the right amount of home comfort.
Add or Upgrade Attic Insulation
Having the ideal amount of attic insulation helps trap heat in your home during the winter, saving you energy because your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard, and therefore saves you money by lowering your heating costs. Inquire with your local utility companies about rebates for installing or upgrading your attic insulation.
Wrap Plumbing
If you insulate your hot water pipes, it can actually help boost the temperature two or three degrees. Hot water on a lower setting? That decreases your energy usage and your energy bills – yes, please!
Get a Precision Tune-Up
Be sure your furnace is ready to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long with an expert Precision tune-up from Rolf Griffin. This month we are offering discounts on our fall tune ups to help make sure you stay warm and safe through the winter. Call 260-557-1275 today to schedule your seasonal tune-up or set up a no-charge in-home estimate on a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system.