Preparing Your Home for the Winter Months

Winter, especially in brisk areas like Calgary, is a mix of festive cheer and the inevitable cold. With the temperature dropping, homes begin to rely heavily on their heating systems. But as furnace repair calls mount during these months, it’s evident that many homeowners are caught off guard. With the right preparation, you can ensure a warm, cozy, and uninterrupted winter.

In this blog, we will Highlight some of the easiest and most beneficial things you can do to prepare with:

1. Schedule an Annual Furnace Inspection / tune-up
2. Prioritize Your Air Filter
3. Seal the Deal with Insulation
4. Dive Deep with Duct Cleaning
5. Modernize with a Programmable Thermostat
6. Care for Your Outdoor Unit
7. Shield Your Hot Water Tank
8. Safety First: Carbon Monoxide Detectors
9. Consider a System Upgrade
10. Knowledge is Warmth: Educate Your Household

1. Schedule an Annual Furnace Inspection:

Every year, before winter sets in, it’s essential to have your heating system inspected by professionals. Especially in colder regions like Calgary, furnaces work overtime and can wear out without regular checks. Our furnace repair services in Calgary specialize in pre-winter inspections, ensuring your furnace is prepared for the season.

Understanding a Furnace Tune-Up:

A furnace tune-up is a comprehensive assessment and maintenance activity to ensure your heating system’s optimal performance. Here’s what’s included in our detailed tune-up:

• Heat Exchanger Inspection: To ensure there are no cracks or compromises that might leak harmful gases into your home.
• Igniter Check: Ensures that the furnace lights up efficiently and safely.
• Flame Sensor Examination: Monitors and ensures the furnace burns safely.
• Gas Valve Inspection: Ensures efficient gas flow and safe operation.
• Motor Checks: Ensures all motors, including the blower motor, function effectively for optimal airflow.
• Temperature Rise Check: This ensures that the furnace heats the air to the desired temperature without overheating.
• Gas Pressure Monitoring: Ensures that the furnace receives the right amount of gas for efficient operation.
• Device Checks: Any devices attached to the furnace, like humidifiers or air purifiers, are checked for proper function.
• Wiring Inspection: Ensures all electrical connections are secure and there’s no risk of electrical faults.
• Service Call Preventatives: A comprehensive look to identify and rectify anything that might cause a future service call.

By addressing each of these components, we ensure that your furnace operates efficiently, safely, and will last through the season, giving you peace of mind.

2. Prioritize Your Air Filter:

An often-overlooked component, the air filter, plays a vital role. A congested filter not only reduces your system’s efficiency but also circulates unwanted dust and allergens. Changing or cleaning your filter every 1-3 months is crucial for optimal air quality in your home. If you’re unsure about the type or fit, our furnace maintenance experts can guide you.

3. Seal the Deal with Insulation:

The best heating system can be rendered inefficient if your home leaks warmth. Insulating and sealing gaps in windows, doors, and walls can significantly conserve heat. This step not only ensures that you maximize the efficiency of your heating system but also can lead to noticeable savings on energy bills.

4. Dive Deep with Duct Cleaning:

Over time, your home’s ducts become a repository for dust, pet dander, and other debris. Engaging in regular air duct cleaning ensures that the air circulating in your home is clean. Our professional duct cleaning service prioritizes your home’s air quality, making sure your HVAC equipment runs smoothly, and you breathe cleaner air.

5. Modernize with a Programmable Thermostat:

In the age of smart homes, a programmable thermostat is an essential addition. This device adjusts temperature settings automatically, offering you warmth when you’re home and conserving energy during your absence.

6. Care for Your Outdoor Unit:

Outdoor units, especially the heat exchanger, need regular attention. Debris, snow, or even fallen leaves can hinder airflow and reduce system efficiency. Regular checks and clearing off any obstructions can extend the life of your HVAC equipment.

7. Shield Your Hot Water Tank:

In cold months, every drop of hot water is precious. By insulating your hot water tank, you prevent unnecessary heat loss, ensuring you get that steaming hot shower even on the chilliest mornings.

This would be especially true with a hot water tank close to an outside wall.

8. Safety First: Carbon Monoxide Detectors:

One of the silent threats of a malfunctioning furnace or compromised heat exchanger is carbon monoxide. Regularly check your detectors to ensure they are functioning correctly, and replace batteries as needed.

9. Consider a System Upgrade:

As technology advances, so does HVAC equipment. Modern systems provide enhanced efficiency, reliability, and features. If your system is showing its age or has been demanding frequent repairs, our installation team can guide you on the best upgrade options.

10. Knowledge is Warmth: Educate Your Household:

An informed household is a warm one. Ensure everyone knows the basics, from changing the air filter to recognizing when the furnace might need a repair. Safety protocols, especially during emergencies, should be common knowledge.

Conclusion:

Bracing for winter involves more than pulling out your winter wear. It’s about a holistic approach to home warmth and safety. From duct cleaning to the nuances of furnace repair in Calgary, being prepared ensures your home remains a cozy haven all winter long. And remember, while some maintenance tasks can be tackled by homeowners, there’s unparalleled peace of mind in getting an annual maintenance check from a seasoned professional.