The winter season is here! You are perhaps all ready to fight the harsh weather outside by keeping your indoor temperature warm and comfortable. Yet you may notice there are certain areas in your home that experience an uneven spread of heat. Know that these hot flashes or chill zones are not something you have to live with, as long as you know how to avoid them.
So, stop putting up with the fluctuating interior climate and make some changes to enjoy a comfortable temperature throughout your home. Here are some valuable tips!
1) Check Your Insulation
Once you have properly insulated your home, it is bound to go a long way for temperature maintenance. Check the insulation in all the rooms of your house, including the basement and the attic. If you don’t have insulation in any room, get it installed from an expert after considering your budget and the kind of temperature control you need. Proper insulation will not only prevent the leakage of hot indoor air, but will also help you save a lot on your heating bills.
2) Repair Drafty Windows And Doors
Many homes do not have double or triple-pane windows. If yours is one of them, there is a good chance that your windows are leaking. Drafty doors and windows compromise the efficiency of your HVAC system by making it work harder to produce the same amount of heat. These drafts can be mended by methods like caulking or weather-stripping that prevent heat loss and maintain a comfortable temperature at home.
3) Check The Vents
By checking the HVAC vents periodically, you can make sure that nothing is obstructing the hot airflow into your home. It is also a good idea to remove grates every once in a while and vacuum out any debris that has accumulated in the vents. Properly functioning vents help the HVAC system distribute air easily throughout the house.
4) Change The Filters
Changing your air filters regularly is one of the easiest ways to ensure warm temperatures throughout your home. Believe it or not, this can greatly affect how your HVAC unit runs! Most air filters can last from one month up to three months and should be changed after that. If you have pets at home or live in a dusty climate, you might need to replace them more frequently, as they accumulate dust and debris faster.
5) Install A Programmable Thermostat
The best thing about programmable thermostats is that they have the ability to maintain warmth indoors despite the fluctuating outside temperatures. You can adjust the settings for when you are away, and get welcomed by a warm, cozy house on your return. Some smart thermostats can also be controlled by smartphone apps, making adjustments from a remote location possible.
6) Make Use Of The Sunlight
If you live in an area where you get plenty of sunlight, ensure to make the most of it. Keep your windows and curtains open during the day, so that the sun’s heat can filter in. At night, shut the curtains as they act as a layer of insulation and retain the warmth inside.
7) Call An HVAC Professional
While all the above-mentioned tips are important, you also need to make sure that your HVAC system is working at its peak condition. Schedule regular HVAC tune-ups and remove any broken or loose parts that are slowing the unit down. Trust only a reliable, experienced HVAC contractor for the job, as he can provide you with the best solutions for your system.
Call our team at Mid Atlantic Heating & Cooling today for an immediate HVAC inspection and service! We are proficient in handling all types of HVAC systems and can assist you with all of your concerns. Our number is 703-447-8046.