Preparing Your Home For Winter

With summer in Baltimore, Maryland lingering into September, it can be difficult to start thinking about winter. But in reality it’s not too early to start preparing your home for the fall and winter months. In fact, it’s best to check your heating system long before you turn it on for the first time in late fall or early winter. Getting a head start is beneficial because if you do encounter any problems, you can deal with them now, without having to suffer through a sudden cold spell without heat. It can also help to have any necessary repairs completed before bad weather sets in and delays the process. Here are some ways you should start prepping your home, while the rest of Baltimore is still taking in the summer sun.

Clear Obstructions from Around Your Furnace

Any boxes, furniture or other obstructions located next to your vents or registers can impact your heating system’s air flow. The system uses the vents and registers to circulate air throughout your home, so any objects in the way can hinder this operation. Clear these obstructions away to help the system run more efficiently and safely. If your home has a heat pump system, trim back any bushes or shrubs near the outdoor unit. In the winter, keep the unit clear of snow. It’s also a good idea to move any heat-generating devices, such as a TV or lamp, away from the thermostat, which can cause your system to heat or cool unnecessarily.

Change Your Air Filter

Changing air filters is an important and often overlooked step to maximizing the efficiency of your heating system. Air filters can become dirty and clogged with dust, which can restrict air flow. Most manufacturers recommend changing filters every month in order to ensure better air quality for you and your family. If you have your furnace manual and instructions, it’s always a good idea to refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations on how often to change the filter.

Check Furnace Functionality

You may not want to turn your heat on in the summer, but it is better to know now that something isn’t functioning properly than finding out when the cold weather sets in. Set the thermostat in heat mode so that the furnace comes on. Let the system run for several minutes to make sure there are no strange noises and that warm air is coming out of the vents. If you notice anything unusual, schedule a service call to diagnose and repair your heating in Baltimore, MD before the cold weather sets in.

As with most things in life, being prepared ahead of time can save you a lot of headaches in the long run. Do not wait until the last minute to get your home ready for the winter, save yourself a lot of valuable time—and cold nights—and start preparing now. You’ll be glad you did when the weather gets cooler and you’re sitting in your toasty warm home, enjoying the change of the seasons.

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Carolyn T. is a journalist with an interest in home design and improvement.