When winter arrives in Atlantic City, NJ, your heating system needs to be ready for the job. Following this HVAC maintenance checklist before the cold settles in can help prevent breakdowns, improve efficiency, and keep your home comfortable. Taking a few smart steps now will help you stay warm all season long without any surprises.
Inspect and Replace Air Filters
Air filters catch dust, pet hair, and other particles before they reach your system. Over time, these filters can get clogged and block airflow. This makes your system work harder and can lower indoor air quality. Check filters each month in the winter and replace them every one to three months. Clean filters help your system run more smoothly and keep the air in your home fresher.
Check the Thermostat Settings
How you set your thermostat affects both comfort and heating costs. Keep it lower when you’re asleep or away, and raise it only when you’re home. If you still have a manual thermostat, think about switching to a programmable or smart model. These can adjust temperatures for you, helping save energy while keeping your home comfortable.
Schedule a Professional Maintenance Service
A seasonal maintenance visit is one of the best ways to prepare your system for winter. A licensed technician will check key parts like the heat exchanger, burner assembly, and safety controls. They’ll also test how well the system is working and look for small issues before they turn into expensive repairs. Professional heating maintenance can help your system last longer and work more reliably during the cold months.
Inspect and Seal Ductwork
Leaks in ductwork can let warm air escape before it reaches the rooms in your home. This can make some areas feel colder and cause your system to run longer. A duct inspection can find these problem spots, and sealing them can make your home more comfortable while using less energy.
Clear and Protect the Outdoor Condenser
If your heating system has an outdoor condenser, keep it free from snow, ice, and debris. Make sure there’s at least two feet of space around it for good airflow. Check it after storms to prevent blockages that could put extra strain on your system.
Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
If you use gas heat, carbon monoxide detectors are an important safety tool. Test them often, change the batteries once a year, and replace the devices every five to seven years. This simple habit can help keep your family safe from an invisible danger.
Get Your Home Winter-Ready
Following these steps can help your heating system run better, use less energy, and keep you comfortable when temperatures drop. Book your winter service with Jenkins and Sons Plumbing & Heating today so your home is ready for the cold.
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