With the holidays upon us, your HVAC system is going to be called upon to keep not only you but also your guests comfortable as you celebrate together. This means the rooms are warm but not too warm and the air is kept fresh and clean, which is a challenge when there’s a lot of cooking and a lot of people in one space. Here are some things to do to make sure your HVAC system does its part to keep the holidays safe and happy.
Have an HVAC Professional Check the System
Your HVAC systems should be checked twice a year anyway, and if you haven’t had this done, now is the time. An inspection can find small problems and fix them before they become large and expensive and shorten the working life of your system. Consider a maintenance agreement if you don’t have one. These agreements have the company schedule regular service checks without you having to remember them. They also save you money in the long run.
Turn the Thermostat Down
It’s amazing how much extra heat is generated by a room full of people. Because of that, it’s a good idea to turn down your thermostat by a few degrees. The task is made even easier if you have a smart thermostat that you can control from your mobile device. If you’re having overnight guests who find your home chillier than they’d like, find extra blankets and space heaters.
Check the Air Filters
This is usually done by an HVAC professional during a maintenance check, but if you haven’t arranged for the service, you should check your air filters yourself. Filthy ones need to be replaced immediately. In addition to contributing to poor air quality, they hamper ventilation and make your system work harder, which shortens its life.
Check for Drafts
Find drafts around your windows and doors and close them up. This can be done simply and easily with caulk and weatherstripping. When air leaks are fixed, your heating system doesn’t need to work as hard, and this saves you money.
Check Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Making sure that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working is important, especially if you are decorating with candles or using a fireplace or a gas-fueled HVAC system. Broken vents can leak carbon monoxide, which is fatal in high enough concentrations.
Call Your HVAC Professional for Service
Besides troubleshooting your system, your HVAC professional can inspect the entire system to make sure that it’s in good working order. They can also install whole-house humidifiers and whole-house fans to ensure your safety and comfort during the holidays. Don’t hesitate to call our HVAC technicians at Payne’s Heating and Air in Tallahassee to schedule any HVAC services, including furnace repair and maintenance.
