There are a few things you can do on your own to help prepare your HVAC system for winter:
Check that your furnace is fully operational a few times before you really need it. Plus, always keep your air vents clean and change your air filter on a regular basis. Since we don’t get ice or snow here in Florida, it’s really not necessary to winterize or cover your AC unit before winter, but it IS a good idea to show it a little love throughout the seasons by keeping it debris-free.
The best tip for getting (and keeping) your HVAC system in great shape for winter (and summer), however, is to schedule regular maintenance check-ups with a trusted heating and air conditioning professional. Experienced HVAC technicians often notice things you may not, helping to keep your system up and running for the long haul…and one of the best times for maintenance is when you need your HVAC system least, so you can rest assured it will be operating optimally when you need it most. That would be the fringe seasons – fall and spring. Also, when your HVAC service professional arrives, let them know if any weird noises, odors or any other potential issues exist.
Once it does begin to get chilly, you can control your energy consumption by turning down the heat at night and when you are not home. You can also close the vents in rooms you don’t need to heat, and remember that hot air rises. So, if your home is two-story, you may also be able to close vents upstairs in some rooms that you actually do use and still remain comfortable.
