A heating system is one of the most expensive items that homeowners have in their house. Therefore, it is very important to keep it running efficiently to ensure its best performance, make it last as long as possible, and keep everyone comfortable as family and friends gather for the holidays.
In its continued commitment to arm homeowners throughout the United States with information to keep themselves and their families safe and warm this winter, the ARS® Rescue Rooter® Network, is providing some simple tips to help them properly maintain their heating systems and comfort.
Check It Out
The best defense against heating problems is to make sure your system is maintained year-round. Having heating equipment serviced by a reputable company at least once a year could reduce your heating bill and prevent costly repairs and replacements in the future.
This professional inspection should include:
- Thermostat calibration that improves total home comfort and temperature control.
- Inspection and cleaning of the air handler/blower as a dirty blower wheel can reduce air flow causing efficiency loss and higher energy bills.
- Filter inspection and cleaning that increases system efficiency and home comfort.
- Inspection of wiring and connections as loose or burnt connections can cause higher operating costs and costly repairs, and inspection of airflow and ductwork.
- Identifying hot and cold spots in the home and balancing the system as needed.
- Gauging electrical systems for proper amp draw as improper amp draw can signal that system parts are near failure.
- Inspecting the heat exchanger, burners, gas and draft pressure, flame and igniter operation and overall safety of gas systems to ensure they are working properly.
Count Back
According to the National Home Builders Association, most heating systems last 10-20 years depending on the type. HVAC systems have an average life span of 10 years, 15-20 years for furnaces, and 16 years for heat pumps. Replacing your old system with a new, high-efficiency one can help pay for itself in the long run by reducing your heating costs by more than 30 to 50 percent.
Keep It Clean
Dirty air filters can negatively affect your home’s air quality and can reduce your system’s energy efficiency. Replacing air filters regularly should be an important part of your regular HVAC system maintenance program. Additionally, do not block air inlets or outlets, with furniture or drapes that restrict proper distribution of air flow.
Give Your Windows Special Treatment
Replacing old windows is an ideal way to save some money during wintertime, however, it can be expensive. Another option is to install window insulation kits, which will limit cold air from entering your home and help keep the heat from escaping.
A fast and inexpensive way to make your home more efficient is to seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors. You can use caulk or foam to help keep the heat inside.
Audit the Attic
In winter weather, attic insulation is key. If you don’t have enough insulation up there, your heating bills can climb sky high. You can easily tell if you need more insulation if structural frame elements, such as ceiling joists or wall framing boards, are visible.
To determine if you should add insulation, you first need to find out how much insulation you already have in your home. A qualified home energy audit will include an insulation check as a routine part of a whole-house energy audit, it will also help identify areas of your home that need to be sealed. Contact your local electric provider to schedule an energy audit of your home.
Safety First
If you discover a problem with your heating system, always approach the situation with the utmost safety in mind. For example, if an electrical circuit consistently trips or a fuse blows when your system is on, you most likely have an electrical problem and should immediately call a service professional and not attempt to fix it yourself. If your system runs on gas and you smell gas in the home, immediately leave the house and call the gas company and fire department to report a leak.
Look Ahead
The easiest way to make sure your heating system is getting the attention it requires is to have a Home Service Plan like the one offered by a local ARS® Rescue Rooter® Network branch. With this plan, you get up to two scheduled maintenance visits each year from a clearly identified service professional. Plus, you receive priority scheduling for service calls, discounts on service visits throughout the year and satisfaction guaranteed. Best of all, you get the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home comfort system is being well taken care of year-round.
To learn more about Home Service Plans or to find out more about your heating system and maintenance options, call (888) 762-7752 or visit www.ARS.com.
About the ARS® Rescue Rooter® Network
The ARS® Rescue Rooter® Network provides customers across the United States with an exceptional service experience through professional heating, air conditioning, plumbing and drain cleaning services. Serving both residential and light commercial customers, the ARS® Rescue Rooter® Network includes 57 company operated and locally managed service locations spanning 24 states and the District of Columbia.
For more information about the ARS® Rescue Rooter® Network visit www.ARS.com.
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Media Contact:
Lindsey Levy, PUSH
407-841-2299
llevy@pushhere.com
Julia Stewart, PUSH
407-841-2299
jstewart@pushhere.com
