The rain, wind, and cold weather is here to stay in the Pacific Northwest for a while. That means many Oregonians will be indoors more often and the heater will crank up a little more. This time of year, it’s common to see utility costs increase. Looking to save money and ensure you don’t get hit with a skyrocketed bill? Here are some important things to keep in mind.
Don’t Forget About Your Air Filters
This is a very easy home maintenance task to do, but unfortunately, many homeowners forget about it! We recommend cleaning or replacing air filters every 1 to 2 months, especially if you have pets in the home or smoke inside. Clean air filters not only allow for the smooth flow of clean air into your home during those cold months but also help keep the equipment running at optimal efficiency. This helps prolong the lifespan of your machine, helps keep your energy bill from spiking, and also keeps you comfortable.
Get Your Equipment Tuned-Up
Just like a car needs oil changes and your body needs regular checkups, so does your furnace. Professional maintenance is key to keeping your machine running well and minimizes your risk of an expensive breakdown when you need warm air the most. Our licensed team of HVAC technicians will check electrical connections and wiring, make sure ducts are blocked, make sure system controls and safety devices are operating well, and will make sure moving parts are lubricated and tightened appropriately. We will also run an energy efficiency check and test to make sure refrigerant levels are good to go. If there are any worn belts, dirty coils or filters, or any other problem spots or airflow issues, we’ll help get those corrected and talk to you about any repairs that need to be made. Each of these checklist items will help you stay warm and comfortable all season long!
As we transition into the holiday months and you plan to stay inside more often and host guests, friends, or family, don’t forget to check your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector batteries. Test them monthly or bi-monthly and make sure they are ready to alert you in case of an emergency. House fires are common this time of year and these small devices can save lives.
The leaves are falling, the days are shorter, and the colder temperatures are here. By following these above tips, you’ll stay cozy all fall and winter long – and keep your energy costs from hitting the roof. Our team at Specialty Heating and Cooling is ready to help, too! Call us today to schedule your repair appointment, HVAC tune-up, or to get a quote for a system replacement before the end of the year. We look forward to talking to you!