Getting Your House Ready for Winter
No matter what climate you live in, your home needs some TLC when the seasons change. Northern climates brace for bone-chilling cold and winter storms, while Southern climates may still enjoy warm, sunny days, but cooler nights. When the temps start dropping outside, it’s time to take a look at what you can do inside to help your home get ready for winter. Having a winter preparation plan for your house not only helps keep an eye on your home’s energy efficiency, but also on your health.
Energy Efficiency Matters
According to the United States Department of Energy, heating and air conditioning systems account for most of the energy use in a typical home. Whether you’re firing up the furnace or just cranking down the air conditioning, winter is prime time to think about how you can save some money—and help the planet—with a more energy efficient home. There are many factors that impact the cost to heat your home over the winter. Two top considerations affecting your energy expenses related to your furnace are the type of fuel used to power your furnace (electricity, natural gas, oil or another type of fuel), and the size of your home. A large home will require more power to heat, driving up costs.
One way to keep heating costs under control is to maximize your system’s efficiency. Help your furnace run better by replacing the filter and cleaning the ductwork. Removing built-up dirt and dust helps air move through the system easier, requiring less energy to operate.
Breathing Better Air
In addition to controlling energy costs, a clean heating and air conditioning system improves the overall quality of the air you breathe inside your home. Dirty systems can contribute to poor indoor air quality and health issues, especially in people with respiratory conditions, autoimmune disorders or certain allergies. Dirt and dust are pulled into the heating and air conditioning system and recirculated through the home up to six times a day. The buildup in the ductwork creates continuous exposure that only duct cleaning can address.
While you’re gearing up for winter, don’t forget to prepare your home by maintaining your home’s heating and air conditioning system. It can save you money and help keep you and your family healthy!
Learn More:
Find a certified air duct cleaner or call 855-GO-NADCA.