The holidays are right around the corner. Whether you’re hosting a yearly holiday party or getting ready for overnight guests, you’ll want to make sure your home is ready. I know you’re probably thinking that home preparation only means making sure your home is clean and food is prepared. But, it should also involve getting your HVAC system company-ready. An HVAC emergency can have a ‘chilling’ effect on your festivities (pun intended)! We’ve provided some easy steps you can take to ensure your home is HVAC ready for the holidays.
First things first, when was the last time you replaced your HVAC air filter? Chances are if you can’t remember, then it’s probably due. Air filters can quickly get clogged with dirt and debris. Make sure to check your air filter regularly and as a general rule, we always recommend you replace it every one to three months. This simple do-it-yourself task can make a huge difference in your inside air quality, and it has the added bonus of helping to extend the life of your equipment.
Next and most importantly, schedule a tune-up of your HVAC system before the holidays arrive. This is the best way to keep your system operating properly and to ensure you and your guests won’t be left in the cold. During a tune-up, your HVAC technician can identify any potential problems and get them fixed before they can lead to future unexpected disasters.
Another great tip is to keep the areas around your HVAC system and vents clear of any flammable materials, including books, blankets, decorations, or area rugs. These materials are not only flammable, but they will also block off the flow of air causing your system to work harder to provide comfort. A system that has to work harder will consume more energy, increasing your utility expenses. Eventually, it can lead to premature failure, costing you a lot more in early replacement costs.
Many homeowners have programmable thermostats but don’t use them. Do yourself a favor and take the time to learn. A programmable thermostat is a great way to effectively and efficiently control the temperature in your home. By setting your thermostat lower when sleeping or away from home, you can savemoney on utility expenses. Set your thermostat to turn on an hour before you wake or arrive home, and you’ll be able to keep you and your company comfortable. Another money-saving tip…during your holiday party, you may even be able to lower your thermostat, as the heat generated from the oven and the number of guests can increase the overall temperature in your home.
Last but definitely not least, make sure your carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke detectors are functioning properly by replacing batteries once a year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Every year, at least 430 people die in the U.S. from accidental CO poisoning. Approximately 50,000 people in the U.S. visit the emergency department each year due to accidental CO poisoning.”Carbon monoxide can’t be detected by sight or smell and having a working detector can save lives.
We hope you’ll take our advice and make sure your home is truly ready for the holidays with these easy tips. If you have any questions or we can help you this holiday season, give us a call at (407) 413-9795. We are a 24/7 company and are available for any HVAC emergencies. Rainaldi Home Services wishes you a happy, safe, and enjoyable holiday season!