HVAC 911 - heating and air conditioning emergency service and residential maintenance and repairs - Maine
04 Sep

Five things you need to do to prepare your heater for Maine winter

School is in full swing. Football season is upon us. The crisp and chilly Maine weather is on the horizon. You can smell the pumpkin spice lattes in the air.

And that means it is time to prepare your heating system for winter.

Here are five things you need to do to optimally ensure your heater performs this winter season.

Call HVAC 911 Maine to get your heating system inspected, cleaned and in peak condition before it gets cold. 

1. Have your heating system inspected by a professional HVAC tech

To ensure your heating system maintains peak performance, have your heating system inspected by a professional HVAC technician every fall. Your warranty requires regular HVAC maintenance by a qualified HVAC specialist to remain in good standing.

An HVAC tech can clean your furnace and inspect it for leaks. They will examine the blower belt for cracks, clean ducts, and remove accumulated dust. They can clean dander and hair that can clog vents. They will also change the filter and ensure everything is in top working order.

HVAC specialists can lubricate components and ensure your furnace performs optimally. Having your system regularly maintained ahead of the cold season can substantially lower your heating bills.

If you need an HVAC tech to inspect your system, call HVAC 911 Maine. A local HVAC specialist can visit your home and get your heating system primed for winter.

2. Stay stocked up on filters and change them often

Keeping a well-stocked supply of filters makes it easy to change the filter when you need a new one. We recommend changing the filters on your heating system every three months and inspecting the filter monthly. Maintaining the filters will ensure unrestricted airflow within your heating system, lowering your heating bill and keeping your home warm and cozy.

If you have a flat filter, consider upgrading to a pleated, HEPA, or electrostatic filter. These work more efficiently because they are better for airflow. 

3. Install an intelligent thermostat to optimize energy savings

Consider investing in a smart programmable thermostat for optimal comfort and lower energy bills. A smart thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature remotely on your smartphone. You can also program the thermostat to optimize your heating energy. Smart thermostats can save 20 to 75 percent on heating costs. 

Call Plumbers 911 Maine for one of our Maine licensed HVAC specialists to install a smart thermostat on your home to optimize comfort and savings.

4. Clean up flammable objects around the furnace

Clean up any flammable debris that may have accumulated around your furnace during the off-season. The residue is easy to overlook, especially if your heating system is in a basement storage area. Make sure any household items are not blocking vents or air ducts. 

5. Cover your AC unit

Protect your outdoor air conditioner with a cover specifically designed for the unit. If you do not have one, call HVAC 911 Maine. One of our HVAC specialists can provide you with one. If your AC unit is the right size, you can use an upside-down trash can. We recommend against using tarps, which tend to trap-in moisture that can damage your AC unit over time. 

Need a service tech to inspect your heating system before winter? Call HVAC 911 Maine

If you need a licensed HVAC specialist to inspect your heating system before winter, call HVAC 911 Maine. We are a network of Maine technicians that can ensure your system is in top working order before it gets too cold. 

All our Maine HVAC Techs are highly trained and fully vetted. They are drug tested, insured and bonded. Call HVAC 911 Maine for a trusted HVAC specialist today!