Wyoming winters can be brutal, so you must make a warm and cozy environment a top priority. There are certain tasks you can do to prepare your home for this prime heating season. Some are simple to do on your own, while others require professional assistance.
Professional Care for Your Heating System
Schedule a Professional Inspection
Professional inspections by licensed HVAC technicians are crucial for your heating system. During the appointment, our team performs various tasks, including assessing wiring, cleaning the heat exchanger, and lubricating moving parts. We recommend scheduling your appointment in early fall. This allows us to prepare your system before the frigid temperatures arrive.
Address Repairs Promptly
It’s essential to act promptly if you know your heating system needs repairs. Problems don’t get better on their own. They only worsen over time, especially if you continue to use your heat as usual. It’s ideal to schedule an appointment for our team to complete the repairs in early fall. This ensures you have a properly functioning heating system before it gets cold, and you don’t have to worry about unexpected emergencies. Additionally, addressing minor problems prevents them from developing into major, costly ones that could lead to a complete breakdown.
Improve Your Home’s Heat Retention
Prep Your Windows and Doors
Gaps around your windows and doors let cold air in and warm air escape. This creates an uncomfortable environment and strains your HVAC system as it works to meet your preferred temperature. Your utility bills also increase as your unit uses extra energy to heat your home.
Use weatherstripping around doors and windows, and apply gap filler to any areas where drafts are coming in. It’s also a smart idea to apply insulating window film to any glass parts of windows and doors. When applied correctly, it helps retain heat.
Check Your Vents
Blocked vents don’t allow heated air to properly fill your rooms. Before turning on the heat, walk through your home and make sure nothing covers the vents. This includes items like area rugs and couches. Leave at least 3 feet of clearance around each vent.
Strategically Plan Your Cooking Times
Use your range during some of the coldest hours of the day to add some extra warmth to your home. You should never use your stove as a primary heating source, and you should never run it solely for heat. However, some residual heat can escape and warm your kitchen while you’re cooking and when the appliance is cooling down.
Use Insulated Curtains
Hang insulated curtains and close them at night to help retain heat. You can open them during the day so that the sunshine naturally warms the rooms.
Perform Self-Inspections
Inspecting your heating unit is an important way to ensure your safety and warmth. Check your heating system every few weeks to make sure it’s operating as expected. Pay attention to signs of potential problems, such as strange noises and odors.
Don’t turn your heat on if you notice anything abnormal. You also shouldn’t attempt to fix any problems yourself. Doing so could cause personal injury and can worsen any issues with your heating system. Turn it off at the electrical panel and call us immediately to describe the problem and schedule an appointment.
Cleaning or changing your air filter is another important part of HVAC maintenance. If your system has a reusable filter, clean it every week or two. Change disposable filters every few months. However, if you have children, pets, seniors, or health-compromised individuals in the home, it’s ideal to do it monthly.
Put Down Area Rugs
Area rugs do a great job of helping to retain heat and keep your home warmer. They also make it much more comfortable to walk, especially first thing in the morning and after a shower. Consider plush area rugs, which can add coziness in addition to warmth.
Turn Your Ceiling Fans On
Your ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. They can also help keep you warm during winter. By setting them on low and running them clockwise, the fans help circulate heated air throughout the rooms, allowing them to feel warmer. This not only helps you feel more comfortable but also gives your HVAC system a break.
Take Charge of Your Comfort Now
Take steps today to start preparing your Wyoming home for winter. Advanced Comfort Solutions in Cheyenne and Laramie provides heating maintenance, installation, and repair services. Schedule a standard or emergency appointment today before temperatures drop even further.
