“Winter” for Katy is a relative idea—we don’t have consistently freezing temperatures a snow storms sweeping through, and we don’t bundle up in parkas and worry about scraping ice off the car windshield each morning. That doesn’t mean we completely get to escape cool weather, or that we don’t have to make any winter preparations. It doesn’t take much, but with a few basic steps, you’ll have any winter comfort problems beaten before they arrive.
Let’s get into the basics of prepping for … well, less warm weather.
Schedule annual fall HVAC maintenance
You must have maintenance for your HVAC system twice a year—first in spring, then fall. The fall maintenance visit checks on the heating system to see that it’s cleaned, adjusted, and doesn’t have any malfunctions requiring repairs before it has to work.
Because we don’t often use our heating systems here, they can develop trouble due to neglect. If you use a heat pump, it also needs a check during fall—you’ll still use it as a cooling system, so you want to be sure it can work in both modes!
Upgrade the thermostat
Fall is an excellent time to make various improvements to the HVAC system that will help not only in winter but throughout the year—and the years to come. If you have a standard manual thermostat that works with a dial or a slide, you only need to replace it with a basic programmable model and you’ll start saving money and enjoying more convenient comfort.
On average, changing to a programmable thermostat can result in saving 20% off your utility bills each year. You may also want to consider a Wi-Fi smart thermostat, which can handle programming itself for maximum benefits.
Install an air purification system
The dry air we often experience during winters in Katy can result in the quick spread of illnesses during the winter. This is prime flu and cold season, after all. The right air purifier can help you enjoy a healthier household throughout the season, and it will also help in spring when allergies and asthma become problems. You may also wish to consider a humidifier. Talk to our IAQ professionals to find out more about how we can improve your winter air.
Have the ductwork professionally cleaned
You don’t need the ducts cleaned every year. But if you haven’t arranged for professionals to do the job during the last five years, or you’ve never had it done, fall is the time to put it on the schedule. Dirty ducts will circulate poor quality air and numerous contaminants during a time when your house is often closed off to the outside, and duct cleaning takes away this huge reservoir of contaminants. Clean ducts will also boost the energy efficiency of the HVAC system.
You can rely on our experts for all furnace services in Katy, TX you need, as well as AC help. (We know you’ll still need the air conditioner during the winter. These systems no know rest in Texas!)
At AC Comfort, your comfort is our business! Reach out for any heating and AC assistance you need in the Katy, TX area.