After a long summer of high air conditioning bills, take advantage of cooler weather to complete fall home maintenance that will help you reduce winter heating bills. Some of these tasks will also have a lasting impact on your home’s energy efficiency.
- CHECK THE ATTIC FOR ADEQUATE INSULATION. It’s exposed to the elements 24/7, and is the site of substantial heat transfer. Heat always moves to colder temperatures, so the attic should have 10 to 20 inches of insulation to slow this heat transfer. Insulation is an inexpensive product that cuts energy consumption year-round.
- LOOK OVER THE ROOF FOR MISSING SHINGLES OR TILES. During rainy weather, missing shingles can leak water onto the roof sheathing, creating damaging roof leaks. If neglected, the leaks can rot insulation and seep through the ceilings, damaging drywall.
- CLEAN GUTTERS. Clear the leaf debris from the gutters and downspouts to more easily drain the rain during the winter.
- CHECK THE EXTERIOR. Look for cracks and crevices around the building envelope to reduce air leaks. Often the caulk around window frames shrinks away from the exterior, allowing outdoor air in. Seal with an exterior caulking material. If you have larger holes, seal with expanding foam. Use silicon caulk around anything that’s routinely hot, like water heater vents, furnace flues or fireplace chimneys.
- CHECK DOOR SEALS. Look at the seal between exterior door frames and the doors. If you can see daylight, replace the weather-stripping to stop air leaks.
- SCHEDULE A FURNACE INSPECTION. Have the heating system serviced by Pickett Heating & Air so it will run more efficiently, dependably and safely. Make a note to check the air filters monthly and change them when dirty to cut system wear and energy consumption.
- CHANGE CEILING FAN DIRECTION. Reverse ceiling fan switches to pull down warmer air once the heating system is on if your fans offer this option.
- KEEP AN EYE ON SAFETY DEVICES. Test the smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries. The CO detectors should be tested monthly if their power source is battery only.
Pickett can help you with your HVAC system’s fall home maintenance. We’ve provided exceptional HVAC services for Central Texas homeowners for over 27 years.
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