It is a terrifying scenario to have your HVAC system suddenly stop working over the holidays. Calling for emergency furnace repair in Los Gatos, CA on Christmas Day is the last thing you need on top of everything else going on this year. So here are some simple things you can do to make sure your home stays comfortable this holiday season.
Don’t Let the Cold In
Before the winter season really sets in you should try and seal up the gaps where cold air can pass through. This means checking the weather-stripping around windows and doors to make sure they are sealed up tight. But there are other fenestrations you can also check, like the places where pipes, cables, and wires also run through the wall. Sealing these up will improve the insulation in your home and keep the cold outside where it belongs.
Tackle the Dust
You do not want a lot of dust, dander, and allergens circulating through your ductwork. It is bad for your health and bad for your HVAC system. If dust gets into the furnace it can damage the mechanical parts and cause unnecessary breakdowns. That is why it pays to keep your home clean. Not only does it improve indoor air quality, but also the more dust you manually remove, the less likely it is to get into the heating system.
Clean Air Vents
Air vents are another thing you want to check on regularly during the holidays. Because you are home more often, the HVAC system runs more frequently. This means a higher accumulation of dust and debris around the intake grills. To help maintain the optimum level of airflow you should clean your air vents once a month. Remove the vents completely, wash both sides, and then replace them. This will help keep your furnace running efficiently all season long.
Swap Air Filters
When was the last time you checked on the air filters? With a lot of people working from home now, it is important to check on your air filters at least once a month. And if the filter is clogged to the point where light doesn’t pass through, you need to replace it. This simple maintenance item will help you save money on your heating costs and prolong the life of your entire HVAC system.
Mind the Thermostat
It is so tempting to adjust the thermostat when you feel the slightest chill, and then turn it back down once you are warm enough. But this isn’t an efficient way to heat the home. A better option is to keep the thermostat at a steady temperature for most of the night and most of the day. In fact, keep it a couple of degrees cooler if you want to save on your energy bill. And then just make sure there is an extra blanket in each room so you can add a layer and remove it as your internal temperature fluctuates. This will help the furnace run as efficiently as possible.
Get a Furnace Tune-Up
It is always a good idea to get furnace repair in Los Gatos, CA before the holiday festivities begin. This ensures that your system will be up and running all season long. If you put off your annual service this year, it isn’t too late. Call Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning for an HVAC tune-up today.
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