When is it time to run your heater?
We all know those people who rush for the thermostat the second the temperature drops below 70 degrees outside. On the contrary, there are also the people who hold out as long as possible, bundling up in their homes until they can’t take it anymore and give in. On average people tend to turn their heaters on when the outside temperature drops below 64 degrees and keep their thermostats at between 68 and 72 degrees.
When it is time to run your heater for the first time, it is important to remember a few key things before doing so.
Test your system before you need it
This is one of those things we often forget until it’s too late. Ideally, you should be turning on your HVAC system to ensure everything is in working order during the earlier fall months before you really need it. That way if there is an issue, you have plenty of time to enlist heater services or furnace services before you need your heat. Look out for any odd odors or sounds coming from your appliances when you turn them on the first time.
Change out your filter
At the beginning of the season, it is a good idea to swap out or clean your filter for your HVAC system. Making sure you take the time to upgrade your filter will help your system run more efficiently and improve the air quality that circulates in your home throughout the winter months.
Take it easy on your HVAC System
Sometimes running your system all day and night is necessary, but this constant use can wear down your system quicker. During the warmer parts of the day, or when you aren’t home, be sure to lower the temperature on your thermostat to give your heater a slight break. Installing separate thermostats in different rooms can help the efficiency of your system also. This allows you to control the temperature at the room level, utilizing the heater more in the rooms you are currently occupying while reducing the usage in the rooms that you aren’t using. Be sure to consult a professional HVAC service provider to ensure that this is done properly.
Schedule a checkup for your system
Just like humans, your HVAC systems are complicated appliances that need regular checkups. Before the start of the cold season, it is a great idea to call in an HVAC service to do a routine checkup. This will prolong the life of your HVAC system and ensure that you make it through the winter without any unexpected problems… (like waking up to a freezing cold house unexpectedly)!
Now is the time to check your heating systems and prevent any last-minute catastrophes when winter rolls in officially. Stephen’s is here to help make sure your home is ready for those cold winter days so be sure to schedule your annual HVAC system check-up now and make sure you are prepared!