With winter rapidly approaching, you might be wondering if your current heating system is ready to handle the inevitable freeze. Depending on which type of heating system you have, there will be certain considerations that will need to be made to ensure that your home stays warm all winter long. Whether you currently have a central heating system or multiple ductless mini-split units, here are some tips on how to make sure your system is ready for winter.
Maintenance on Central Heating Systems
Ductwork can become poorly insulated due to cracks and holes that have developed over time. Any weakness in your ductwork can result in your central system working less efficiently, which will lead to your system having to work harder to maintain the temperature in your house.
However, ductwork is not the only maintenance consideration you need to make. If you haven’t had your main motor serviced in a while or it hasn’t been replaced in 20 years, you might run into issues once the weather starts getting colder. Older motors that haven’t been maintained can eventually burn out, leading your system to stop working entirely. This can be a costly replacement, which is why you should probably check to see if it is working properly before it gets too cold. Doing so will allow you time to budget for a replacement if necessary or can allow you to consider another alternative heating solution.
Ductless Mini-Split Systems
One of the most effective alternatives to central heat is a ductless mini-split system. These systems are especially great for budget-conscious consumers who still want to stay comfortable during the frigid winter months. Unlike regular central systems, these units require no ductwork and can be installed virtually anywhere in your house.
Their advantage is that they allow you to heat only the individual rooms in your house that you spend the most time in. They are also very energy efficient, which will lead to even more added savings. If you already have one of these units, you’re going to want to make sure it is blowing out hot air before it gets too cold. The last thing you want is to turn it on when the temperature dips below freezing, only to find out that it isn’t heating. Calling a service technician to check it out before the first days of winter is recommended if you want to ensure that your current system will last throughout the winter.
Be prepared to stay warm with working heat
Overall, checking up on your current system is usually a good idea and something you’re going to want to do before it gets too cold. By doing so, you will ensure that you’re ready to take on the winter chill regardless of which system you have. While central air systems are great at distributing an even level of heat, they do come with maintenance that needs to be addressed each year before winter strikes.
Ductless mini-split units are a great low-maintenance alternative, but will not distribute your heat evenly throughout the house unless you have multiple units. In the end, it is important to do all the necessary maintenance a month before it starts getting cold.
Want to rest assured that you'll have reliable heat this winter? Contact us to learn how reliable mini-splits can be for heat. For residential consumers, Home Mechanics provides the best HVAC maintenance and repair services. Call Home Mechanics for your heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical needs or email us directly at info@homemechanics.com. We are always ready to provide you with the best HVAC solutions.