Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and feasting. As you prepare your home for holiday guests, don’t forget about your heating system! A warm, comfortable home is essential for a great holiday weekend. Nothing puts a damper on a festive mood faster than a cold house, so it's a good idea to take some proactive steps to ensure your heating system is ready for the extra workload.
Here’s a simple guide to help you get your heating system in top shape before your guests arrive.
Change Your Air Filter
This is one of the easiest and most important things you can do. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your heating system to work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills and even system failure. Most manufacturers recommend changing your filter every one to three months, and it's especially important to put a fresh one in right before you have a full house. A new filter will not only improve your system’s efficiency but also help maintain good indoor air quality for your guests.
Test Your Thermostat
Your thermostat is the command center for your heating system. Make sure it's working correctly by testing it a few days before your guests arrive. Turn the heat up a few degrees and listen for your system to kick on. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, double-check that your settings are correct and that it's not set to a "vacation" or "away" mode. Adjusting the temperature a little lower at night can also help save on energy costs, and your guests might even sleep better in a cooler room.
Clear Vents and Registers
Walk through your home and check that all air vents and registers are open and not blocked by furniture, curtains, or rugs. Blocked vents can disrupt the proper distribution of heat and make certain rooms feel colder than others. With more people in the house, you'll want to ensure that every room is comfortable. Taking a few minutes to clear the vents will help your system heat your home evenly and efficiently.
Get a Professional Tune-Up
While the previous tips are great for homeowners to do themselves, a professional tune-up is the best way to ensure your heating system is ready for the cold North Carolina weather and the demands of hosting. A qualified technician from B & J Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. can inspect your entire system, clean key components, and identify any potential issues before they become major problems. This is especially crucial if you haven’t had your system serviced in over a year. A professional tune-up can improve efficiency, extend the life of your system, and give you peace of mind.
The Last Thing You Want Is an Emergency
The last thing you want to worry about when you have a house full of holiday guests is a heating emergency. Taking these simple steps will help you avoid an unexpected breakdown, but if you do run into a problem, remember that help is just a phone call away.
For any heating service needs, from a pre-holiday tune-up to an emergency repair, you can trust the experts at B & J Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.. We're here to help you keep your home warm and comfortable all season long.
Contact us today at (252) 512-5651 to schedule a service and ensure your home is ready for a happy and warm holiday season.