Winter
is fast approaching. That means cooler temperatures and higher utility
bills. Make sure your heating system is ready this winter. Here are a
few tips to ensure your system is running properly.
1.
Schedule a routine maintenance on your heating system to ensure that
the system is running at optimal levels and functioning efficiently and
safely. A little prevention now could save you a lot of money and
headaches later.
2.
Change your air filter regularly. This will ensure proper air flow for
optimal efficiency and cleaner indoor air quality. You will be
spending more time inside with the drop in temperatures so make sure you
are breathing clean air this winter.
3.
Update your thermostat to ensure that your system is heating at the
proper levels. Older thermostats that use mercury can be very
inaccurate and their calibrations may vary which leads to your furnace
outputting more heat than may be called for. This unnecessary usage of
electricity increases your utility bills each month. Consider replacing
your old thermostat with a new digital thermostat. Digital thermostats
are more accurate and can be programmed so you can set your heating to
go on before you wake up or return home, and can be automatically turned
off when you leave for work.
4.
Clean your heating ducts periodically to allow efficient heating and
provide fresh, clean air. Be sure to routinely inspect your heating
ducts to make sure there are no punctures, dents or disconnected parts.
Damaged or dirty ducts can raise your heating bills by blowing wasted
warm air and restricting air flow.