How to Prepare for Winter HVAC Style
Well, it’s nearly here – the cold weather. This time of year we’re preparing a lot of things for the great chill to come, and your heating and air conditioning systems should be a part of that ritual too! Here are some tips and tricks Chapman recommends for switching from the air conditioning to the heating season:
- Thermostat and CO Detectors: If your thermostat requires batteries this is a good time to get those switched out. The changing of the seasons is a good time to check batteries in the fire detectors at your home and ensure that a CO monitor or detector is installed properly. If you have any questions about this, or do not currently have a CO monitor or detector in your home, feel free to call our office or look here for more information.
- Normal Smells: Remember the first time you turn your furnace on it might have a dusty smell. This is totally normal. Keep in mind your furnace hasn’t been on all summer and will take a while to burn off the dust that has collected. If this smell persists or is concerning though, consulting a professional at Chapman is recommended.
- To cover, or not to cover?: We recommend you do not cover your air conditioner unit outside. This is something many people do and there are even specialized covers for the outside unit but, in our opinion, it can cause more harm than it’s worth. It’s good to remember that these air conditioners are made to withstand the outside elements. Putting a cover on the system can trap in condensation, creating rust, or if your system comes on before the cover is taken off, it can create high head pressures and this can do a lot of damage to the air conditioning system. If you are also the proud owner of a heat pump, your outside system will come on during the winter months (this is normal) and it is especially important in this case that you do not cover your system.
- Annual maintenance is a great way to keep your heating and air conditioning systems clean and efficient throughout the year. Worried you might miss something trying to get the furnace ready for winter? Just call Chapman and we can come out and do it for you! Also, if you’re worried about getting leaves or debris in your air conditioner during the winter months, Chapman can come out in the spring to clean it all out and tune it all up for you. Check this blog for more information on our annual maintenance program.
Fall is such a wonderful time of year, we’re all looking forward to the leaves changing colors, the pumpkin spiced lattes, and spending time with family. We’re now offering $50 off a whole house humidifier installed, normally $599, now just $549! Check here for the coupon and be sure that everyone’s comfort levels are high in your home this year using these tips!