Winter Maintenance Tips

This is the season for gathering with friends and family near a warm fire. But this is also prime time for Mother Nature to wreak havoc on our homes and even our health. Follow the below winter maintenance checklist, courtesy of Angie’s List, to protect your most valuable assets this season:

HVAC System

Call for an inspection: Lack of proper HVAC maintenance is one of the number one reasons for “no heat” calls. Not only does calling for an inspection help ensure everything is in good working condition, but it can also detect potential health hazards (ie: carbon monoxide leak). Change Dirty Filters: Switching to clean filters helps your system operate more efficiently and thus reduces your energy costs. More importantly, a cleaner filter means improved indoor air quality! Check Ductwork: Make sure all ductwork is sealed at joints and intersections to prevent heated air from leaking. Your warm air may be seeping out into the attic or crawl space – where it’s not needed. Or, the cold outside air can be drawn in instead. Either way, this increases your heating costs and reduces your indoor comfort.

Plumbing

Insulate Exposed Pipes: Pipes located in unheated areas are the most likely to freeze, while pipes that have been frozen in the past are more susceptible, now, to damage. Adding heat tape to these pipes prior to insulating can offer an extra layer of protection. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Keep Cabinet Doors Open: If you have small children, remove anything that could be hazardous. Otherwise, open cabinet doors below the kitchen and bathroom sink to help warm air circulate around those pipes. Locate Your Shut-Off Valve: If you have a winter retreat planned that will be taking you away from home, shut off the water at the main shut-off valve to prevent any emergencies while you’re away! For more information on prepping your home this season, download Angie’s List’s full guide here » At B & W Heating & Cooling, we’re available for all of your home’s winter maintenance needs. Give one of our expert technicians a call today: 618-254-0645. Don’t forget to LIKE us on Facebook for more updates and industry news.