As the leaves turn amber and the harvest moon rises, there’s a whisper of fall in the air. And we’re betting you’ve been feeling a subtle nudge to prepare your home for the winter months.
In the Midwest, where frost paints a picturesque but chilling canvas, the readiness of your HVAC system is not just a convenience … it’s a lifeline.
Switch and Save
Before Jack Frost has a chance to nip at your nose, it is a good idea to make sure your thermostat has switched from its summer job to its winter responsibilities.
It’s a very simple task: set your thermostat a few degrees above room temperature and listen for the comforting hum of the furnace kicking in.
No such luck? After double-checking connections and ensuring your system is powered, it might be time to summon your friendly neighborhood HVAC pros at Wright’s Air!
Ceiling Fan Flip
Did you know that your ceiling fans have two settings: one for summer and one for winter?
A quick adjustment (usually an ‘up and down’ switch above the fan blades) will reverse your fan to run clockwise.
By creating an updraft, the fan circulates warm air and helps lessen the demand on your heating system.
Cover It Up
If you’re cold, then your AC unit is cold. When the temperature dips, an AC cover provides a simple, breathable shield from the icy grip of winter.
Greenville may not get much snow, but we’ve been known to see an inch or two here and there. Covering the unit will help the long-term life of your equipment.
Also, ensure the power to the unit is off to prevent an unwelcome and untimely start during a warm spell.
Change Your Filter. Often.
Are you tired of us mentioning your air filter in nearly every article we write? Well, get used to it because this seemingly insignificant item is the silent sentinel of your HVAC system.
As a guardian against particulates, the filter safeguards air quality as well as the efficiency of your furnace.
With the changing seasons, pledge to replace the air filter monthly, especially if your home is a haven for pets or allergies. In fact, you should pause reading this and go change it now!
The Annual Ritual
The cornerstone of furnace protection is the fall tune-up.
Wright’s Air offers comprehensive maintenance plans (we call them Comfort Assurance Plans) that help your HVAC system run more efficiently and last longer.
It’s not merely about preventing the inconvenience of a mid-winter hiccup; it’s about ensuring that your home is a “citadel of comfort” when the world outside is anything but.
The Ducts Directive
If your home was a living organism, its veins would be the air ducts that carry warm air from the furnace to your rooms.
As your home ages, your ductwork can begin to deteriorate. An annual inspection can reveal hidden flaws: punctures, dust, or the silent threat of mold.
While a keen eye can spot the obvious, it’s always best to have Wright’s Air offer a professional touch. We can ensure that the warmth that flows through your home is as pure as the winter air is cold.
Carbon Monoxide
The silent threat of carbon monoxide demands a stalwart defense.
As we discussed in a previous post, regular testing of your CO detectors can help make sure your family is safe.
The Chimney Check
As we huddle indoors against the winter chill, the chimney is the quiet guardian of your home’s airway.
A yearly inspection is more than a precaution; it offers the best defense against the silent buildup of carbon.
Insulation Initiative
If your attic typically feels winter’s frosty breath, you may have a problem.
Proper insulation isn’t just about comfort; it’s about conservation. Your attic should have an R-value of 49, providing a cloak of protection that keeps the warmth where it belongs—inside your home.
If your attic’s insulation is over a decade old, or if you suspect it is less than adequate, give us a call. We can help figure out how much insulation you need to add so that your heated air isn’t slipping away like a thief in the night.
Simple Joys of a Clean Home
With the world outside dormant and grey, our homes become our refuge, our place of gathering. Ensuring your dwelling is tidy and free from dirt, dust, and allergens is more than aesthetic. It’s more healthy.
Crank It Up
During November, before the winter cold really kicks in, give your heating system a rehearsal.
Turn on your furnace to full blast, and confirm that everything is working the way it should. This will offer peace of mind as you confirm your home will be warm and comfortable when it’s time for the “real thing.”
Final Thoughts
Now, as the leaves surrender to the wind and you hear the subtle whispers of winter, it’s your cue to act.
Don’t let the beauty of fall’s lull you into inaction. Instead, let it be a colorful reminder of the warmth you wish to preserve within your walls.
Contact Wright’s Air today at (903) 455-5662, and let us help you secure the comfort of your home before winter takes the stage. Our technicians are standing by, ready to tune and test your heating system so that you triumph over the cold.