Cold, windy, and dry- sound familiar? That’s winter in Amarillo for you! We know firsthand that winters in Amarillo can be tough. At A&R Mechanical, we want to help make them a little easier by ensuring that your HVAC system is ready for the low temps. Routine HVAC winter preparation is essential to keep your home comfortable and safe throughout the season. We’ve put together a list of steps you can take today to prepare your HVAC system and avoid unexpected breakdowns this winter.
Inspect Your HVAC System
The first step in HVAC winter preparation is to inspect your home and HVAC system for signs of wear:
- Seal leaks or gaps in ducts and windows to keep warm air in and cold air out.
- Tighten loose screws and fasteners on both indoor and outdoor components to reduce noise and prevent future damage.
- If your HVAC system needs it, oil your motor blower. Often, this is best handled by an HVAC professional.
Check Your HVAC Air Filters
Checking and replacing your air filters is a simple but essential part of heating system maintenance. Dirty air filters restrict air flow, forcing your HVAC system to work harder. This can lead to overheating, higher energy bills, and unnecessary wear. We recommend checking your air filters monthly and replacing them every 2-3 months.
Clear Your HVAC’s Surroundings
When furniture or debris is too close to your HVAC system, it is harder for the air to circulate properly. To get the most out of your HVAC system this winter, check both the indoor and outdoor components for clutter:
- Indoors: Keep furniture and decor at least 18” away from vents and returns
- Outdoors: Clear leaves, weeds, and debris from around the outdoor unit, and check that the fan blades are clear and able to spin freely.
Reprogram Your Home Thermostat
Setting your thermostat correctly helps you stay warm and reduces heating costs. Once temperatures stay below 55°F, turn on your heater. Gradually heating your home at the start of the season, rather than waiting until it is freezing, can prevent energy spikes. To maximize your energy savings, we recommend setting your thermostat at 68°F throughout the chilly season.
Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With increased heating activity in the winter, there is a higher risk of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure. CO is a dangerous gas that can leak from a faulty heating system, so it is essential that your CO detectors are working properly. Change the batteries in your detectors and test them regularly. If you don’t have any CO detectors, now is a good time to get one. If you or your family start to feel any symptoms of CO poisoning, seek medical attention immediately.
Schedule Maintenance with an A&R HVAC Professional
Some things are better handled by a professional. Regular HVAC maintenance prevents unexpected breakdowns and keeps your home comfortable and safe. Here’s what a professional tune-up can do for you:
- Clean and inspect internal components to ensure high air quality
- Identify and fix minor repair issues before they become major problems
- Optimize your system’s performance to save on energy bills
A little maintenance can go a long way. For total peace of mind, consider hiring an HVAC professional like A&R Mechanical for your winter tune-up or any heating repair needs.
Let Us Help You Stay Warm This Winter!
At A&R Mechanical, your comfort and safety are our top priorities. We understand the unique challenges Amarillo winters brings and are available 24/7 to address any HVAC issue you have. Contact us today to schedule a service or get a free quote- we’ll help you keep your home cozy all winter!
