Ready or Not Winter is Coming!

Well with this bitter cold that has hit us this weekend, it’s easy to feel behind in being prepared for it.  Here are a few tips to get your home ready for the cold winter ahead!

1) Change your furnace filters

It really is easy to forget, but it’s important to replace or clean furnace filters once a month during the heating season. Dirty filters restrict airflow and increase energy demand. One time saving tip: Mark a monthly check on your calendar.  You could also consider switching to a permanent filter, which will reduce waste and hassle. Did you know that disposable fiberglass filters trap a measly 10 to 40 percent of debris? Electostatic filters trap around 88% and are much better at controlling the bacteria, mold, viruses and pollen that cause illness and irritation. They are a bit pricey at $50 to $1,000 or more. You might also consider is a genuine HEPA filter which can remove at least 99.97% of airborne particles.

2) Run Fans In Reverse

Most people think of fans only when they want to be cool, but many ceiling units come with a handy switch that reverses the direction of the blades. Counterclockwise rotation produces cooling breezes, while switching to clockwise makes it warmer. Air pooled near the ceiling is circulated back into the living space—cutting your heating costs as much as 10 percent!

3) Drain AC Units & Outside Water Hoses

This one’s really easy, and it will even save you a few pennies next summer, too: Simply drain any hoses and air conditioner pipes, and make sure you don’t have excess water pooled in equipment. If your A/C has a water shutoff valve, go ahead and turn that off.  Similarly, make sure any hoses are drained and stowed away neatly. Turn off exterior water spigots. Don’t forget to remove any window A/C units and store them so you don’t invite cold drafts all winter

4)  Blow Out and/or Drain Sprinkler System

Some sprinkler systems only require that they be drained while other have to be blown out.  You may need to get in touch with a contractor to help you blow out your sprinkler system.   Draining a system usually occurs where the system meets the water connection.  When in doubt, don’t hesitate to get a professional involved.  The cool weather can easily sneak up on us in Colorado, so try to get these tasks done prior to our first big snow/freeze.

5)  Furnace Tune Up

It is a great time to make sure your furnace is in tip top shape.  Hiring a contractor to do a cleaning on your furnace system annually will make sure it stays in great shape for many, many years.  This is a relatively inexpensive way to avoid the huge expense of replacing your furnace system.  It will also help you reduce your heating bill when your furnace is running efficiently.

These are just a few tips to be sure your home is ready for the upcoming winter season!

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