Winter is approaching, and a complete winterizing house checklist will prevent systems from getting pricey breakdowns by up to 95%. No homeowner wants to deal with a broken heating system or frozen pipes during the coldest months.
Early preparation will save you from the most important headaches down the road. A complete winterize home checklist will give you a comfortable living space throughout the season and reduce energy bills by up to 30%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The EPA reports that indoor air pollutant levels can be 2-5 times higher than outdoor levels and this is a big deal as it means that they can reach 100 times higher in extreme cases. This makes proper HVAC maintenance crucial during winter months when windows stay closed.
Inspect and Prepare Your HVAC System
Your HVAC system works like the heart of your home’s winter comfort. Regular maintenance now helps you avoid getting pricey repairs when temperatures drop.
Air filters need replacement every 1-3 months to keep airflow at its best. Your system has to work harder with clogged filters, which raises energy costs and might cause system failure. You should think over upgrading to HEPA-rated options that provide better air purification, since indoor air pollutant levels rise by a lot during winter.
The heating system needs testing before the cold arrives. Just switch your thermostat from “cool” to “heat” and bump up the temperature a few degrees. A system that doesn’t respond quickly might have thermostat wiring issues, so call a professional.
Seal, Insulate, and Protect Your Home
Your winterizing house checklist should prioritize proper sealing and insulation. The EPA shows that you can save about 11% on total energy costs by sealing gaps and adding insulation correctly.
The first step is to look for air leaks in your home. Heat commonly escapes through windows, doors, and attic spaces. You should also check spots where plumbing, electrical wiring, or ductwork pass through walls and ceilings.
Seal any gaps you find right away. Put caulk around window frames and add weatherstripping to doors and movable window parts. Larger openings need foam sealant. Draft stops work great at door bottoms and don’t need drilling to block cold air effectively.
Plumbing and Safety Checks Before Winter
Protecting your plumbing system is a vital part of any winter home checklist. Start by finding and closing the interior shut-off valves that feed your outdoor faucets. Once these valves are shut, open the exterior faucets to drain any remaining water. This prevents your pipes from freezing and bursting.
Take your garden hoses down and drain them completely. Store them in a temperature-controlled space. You can add more protection by putting cold-weather covers on outdoor faucets. It’s also smart to insulate any exposed pipes, especially when you have them in unheated spaces like basements, attics, or garages.
Here’s where you should put carbon monoxide detectors:
Near all fuel-burning appliances (furnaces, stoves, water heaters)
On every level of your home
Close to sleeping areas
Don’t forget about your water heater. A yearly tank flush removes sediment that cuts down on efficiency. This job is best left to professionals to avoid damaging your equipment or home.
A full winter prep of your plumbing and safety systems protects your property and gives you peace of mind during the cold months. These simple steps can save you from getting hit with expensive emergency repairs later.
Conclusion
A properly serviced AC system creates a healthy and comfortable living environment during winter’s challenging months. Your A/C service in Fresno experts know that these maintenance practices will improve your home’s comfort level and reduce your monthly utility bills significantly.
Ready to experience the maximum comfort and efficiency for your HVAC needs? Contact your HVAC contractor in Fresno, Maximum Air today at (559) 222-0733 and let our expert team take care of all your heating and cooling requirements. Don’t settle for anything less than the best – choose Maximum Air for superior service, reliable solutions, and unmatched customer satisfaction. Call us now and discover why we are the trusted choice for HVAC services in Fresno.
