If you felt more of the cold than you would have liked during this January’s plunge into the negative 30’s, it’s time to take a closer look at your HVAC system. Often, there are a few simple fixes or maintenance tips that change the way your HVAC operates that will make your home significantly more comfortable when you need to stay warm.
Check Your Thermostat Has The Right Settings and Functions
We tend to begin most of our checks with the thermostat—because it is the control system of the entire operation! If your thermostat isn’t in working order, then your home’s temperature will be varied and non-adjustable.
First, start by setting your thermostat to the temperature you would like your home at for a typical Winter day. Throughout the year, your thermostat should be somewhere in between the 20 (68F) and 22 (72F) mark. In the winter, it’s tempting to turn up the heat a few notches, but our suggestion is to keep the changes reasonable. If you find that your home is cold, especially when there’s a deep freeze going on outside, turn up your thermostat a degree or two and refrain from drastic changes.
If your thermostat setting doesn’t help to change the temperature of your home, have an HVAC expert check to see that it is installed correctly. Older models may need to be updated or batteries may need to be changed.
Replace Your Air Filter
We’ve said it many times, but we’ll say it again. Make sure to replace your air furnace air filter to ensure the best operation. If your air filter has built up particles and dirt, it isn’t as effective as it can be and airflow can be restricted. If you make a habit of replacing it every 3 months, you’ll be sure to have the best air quality, year round.
Check Your Air Vents and Ducts
If you’re feeling cold in any particular room, do a quick check of the air vent. Did the cat drop a chew toy that got stuck in the vent? Did you accidentally drop your sweater on the vent (and forgot to move it off?)
Anything that blocks your air vent can be the reason heat doesn’t travel through the room.
But if nothing seems to be blocking them, it can be a problem with your ducts. After any home renovation, and even after a few years of regular home living, your ducts can become blocked with debris and dirt. Be sure to have your air ducts cleaned by a professional HVAC duct cleaner for the best airflow possible. Also, have an HVAC expert examine the ductwork to see if there are any small cracks or rips that are leaking air.
Furnace and Operation Check
Last but not least, check your furnace. Make sure that the heating mechanism in the furnace is properly working, like the pilot light for a gas furnace. If your furnace is working overtime, you may hear an excessive noise but not any results to go with it.
In any case, if you have doubts about the capabilities and the power of your furnace and HVAC system, be sure to call Applewood Air to speak with an HVAC expert. During the Winter months, our HVAC experts will look at airflow problems, and there is a 24/7 service available for emergencies when a home has no heat (in Mississauga and Oakville).
