As the cool winds of fall begin to sweep through Longmont, CO, residents know that the harsh winter chill isn’t far behind. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime local, preparing your heating system for the coming cold months is essential to ensuring your home stays warm and cozy throughout the season. The transition from autumn to winter in Colorado is a reminder that temperatures can plummet quickly, and a malfunctioning heating system can leave you shivering in the cold.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to take now to prepare your heating system for fall and winter in Longmont. From regular maintenance tasks to knowing when to call in the professionals, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Why Preparing Your Heating System Matters
Before we get into the specifics of how to prep your heating system, it’s important to understand why this maintenance is so crucial. Heating systems are often out of sight, out of mind—until they stop working when you need them the most. The cold temperatures in Longmont, CO, can quickly make an unprepared home uncomfortable, and HVAC issues rarely happen at a convenient time.
Routine maintenance and preparation not only extend the life of your system but also help ensure that your home stays comfortable all season long. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for nearly half of your home’s energy use, meaning an inefficient system can lead to higher energy bills. A well-maintained system, on the other hand, runs more efficiently, saving you money and improving indoor air quality.
Step 1: Schedule a Professional Heating Inspection
The first and most important step to preparing your heating system for the colder months is to have a professional inspection. It’s recommended that you schedule an inspection before the weather turns frigid. Homerun Heating & Air, for example, offers comprehensive inspections where a licensed HVAC technician will check every aspect of your heating system to ensure it’s working properly.
During the inspection, your technician will:
- Check the system’s overall efficiency and performance.
- Inspect and replace the air filter if necessary.
- Examine the blower and fan motor.
- Inspect the heat exchanger and combustion chamber (for gas heaters).
- Test the thermostat’s accuracy.
Having a professional handle this task can catch potential problems early, saving you from costly repairs or a breakdown in the dead of winter.
Step 2: Change or Clean the Air Filter
One of the simplest, yet most effective ways to maintain your heating system is by changing or cleaning the air filter. Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your heating system work harder to heat your home, which can lead to higher energy bills and increased wear and tear.
The general recommendation is to change your air filter every 1–3 months, depending on usage and the type of filter you have. If you haven’t done so recently, now is the time to change it before winter arrives.
Air filters are relatively inexpensive, and replacing them is a simple task you can do yourself. However, if you’re not sure how to find or replace your filter, your HVAC technician can help during your system’s inspection.
Step 3: Check the Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat plays a crucial role in regulating your home’s temperature and ensuring your heating system is working efficiently. Before the weather gets too cold, it’s important to check that your thermostat is functioning properly. This includes:
- Calibrating the thermostat: Ensure it’s reading the temperature accurately. If your thermostat seems to be off, you may need to recalibrate it, which can be done by a professional.
- Switching to heating mode: If you’ve been using air conditioning throughout the summer, make sure you switch the thermostat’s setting to “heat” and set it to your preferred temperature.
- Checking the batteries: If you have a battery-operated thermostat, it’s a good idea to replace the batteries annually to avoid a sudden loss of power.
By testing your thermostat now, you can ensure it’s ready to keep you warm without any surprises.
Step 4: Inspect and Seal Your Home’s Insulation
Proper insulation is essential for maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature in your home. Without adequate insulation, your heating system has to work overtime to compensate for the heat loss, leading to higher energy costs and strain on your system.
Here are a few ways you can ensure your insulation is ready for winter:
- Seal windows and doors: Check for any gaps around windows and doors. Sealing these cracks with weatherstripping or caulk can prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from entering.
- Inspect attic insulation: If your attic isn’t properly insulated, you could be losing heat through the roof. Consider adding more insulation if necessary.
- Check ductwork for leaks: Leaky ducts can result in lost heat and lower the efficiency of your system. Have an HVAC technician inspect your ducts and seal any leaks before the weather gets colder.
By improving your home’s insulation, you can reduce the strain on your heating system and keep your home warmer with less energy.
Step 5: Clear Vents and Registers
Before you start using your heating system daily, it’s a good idea to inspect and clear any vents and registers. Furniture, rugs, and other objects can block airflow, which can limit your heating system’s effectiveness.
Make sure that nothing is obstructing the vents in the rooms you want to heat. Additionally, if you have baseboard heating, check that nothing is blocking the airflow along the baseboards.
Clear vents allow warm air to circulate more efficiently, helping your system run smoothly and ensuring that every room gets the heat it needs.
Step 6: Test Your Heating System
Once your system has been inspected, filters replaced, and thermostat checked, it’s time to give your heating system a test run. Turn the heat on and monitor the system for a few hours. Pay attention to:
- Strange noises: If you hear any rattling, buzzing, or whistling sounds, it could indicate a problem with the system that needs to be addressed.
- Uneven heating: Make sure that the heat is distributed evenly throughout your home. If some rooms feel warmer than others, it could point to a ductwork issue or a problem with your system’s blower.
- Air quality: If you notice dust or strange odors when your heating system turns on, it could mean the ducts or system need to be cleaned.
Testing your heating system ahead of time allows you to identify and address issues before you’re relying on it in the middle of winter.
Step 7: Consider Upgrading Your System
If your heating system is more than 10–15 years old, it might be time to consider replacing it with a more energy-efficient model. Advances in HVAC technology mean that newer systems use less energy to heat your home, which can significantly lower your energy bills. A more efficient system is also likely to require fewer repairs, saving you money in the long run.
At Homerun Heating & Air, we offer a wide range of energy-efficient heating systems to suit your needs. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to upgrade, our experts can help you assess your system’s efficiency and guide you through the options available.
For Heating Services in Longmont, CO, Contact Homerun Heating & Air Today
Now that you know the essential steps to prepare your heating system for fall and winter, it’s time to take action. At Homerun Heating & Air, we understand the importance of having a reliable heating system during Colorado’s cold months. Our team of licensed professionals is ready to help you with everything from routine inspections to emergency repairs.
Don’t wait for the first snowstorm to hit—contact Homerun Heating & Air today to schedule your heating system inspection, maintenance, or upgrade. We’re here to ensure your home stays warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient all winter long.
Call us today to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment. Stay ahead of the winter chill and let us take care of the rest!