The leaves are changing, and temperatures are dropping in Western Pennsylvania, which is our cue to transition our homes for even colder weather ahead. To prepare your family and your home and to ensure your ongoing comfort, put the tasks below on your home maintenance checklist. Following these best practices – and working with us when you need HVAC maintenance or repairs – you’ll not only ensure your family stays cozy, but you’ll also keep your HVAC efficiency up and your bills down!

Replace Your Air Filter

Your HVAC air filter provides two important benefits to you and your family. First, it prevents contaminants from getting into the working components of your system. Without proper filters, these contaminants can lower your energy efficiency (and increase your utility bill!), as well as cause system breakdowns. Second, trapping dust and germs in the filter means they’re not floating around the air in your house. Removing impurities from the air circulating in your home results in better health and wellness due to improved air quality. This is particularly important if anyone you live with suffers from allergies or asthma! The seasonal transition is the perfect time to check your air filter to see if it needs replacing. (HINT: It’s been working hard for you – It probably does!)

Schedule a Heating System Inspection

The optimal time to schedule heating system inspection and maintenance with us is in the fall, before it gets cold enough to turn your furnace on for the first time. Unless you’re Dr. Freeze, you have probably used your heating system already this fall, but don’t skip this because you didn’t schedule your appointment at the ‘optimal’ time. The second-best time for your annual system check is now.

If you want to improve the performance and efficiency of your heating system, minimize the possibility of breakdowns through the winter season, and extend the life of your system, be sure to schedule your inspection and maintenance. Do it now so that any system issues are handled now, before the deep chill of January and February hits. Don’t be the family that wakes up on the first freezing morning with no heat! Get your furnace, heat pump, or other heating equipment ready for winter by taking care of it right now.

Think about Repairing or Replacing your Air Conditioner

We know you likely spent more time inside this summer than you normally do, given that we have fewer options for getting out and about this year. Where you cool and comfortable enough? If it was difficult to keep your home cool, an issue in need of repair could have been why your system struggled. On the other hand, it could be time to invest in a new, better system.

Now is a great time to replace you’re A/C – before the extreme weather of winter keeps HVAC technicians super-busy and before the heat starts to rise again in a few months. The best part is you’ll likely experience significant savings on your energy bills because newer systems tend to be more efficient that older models. Over time, you’ll save money and your investment will pay for itself.

If you’re not sure whether you’re due for an upgrade, call us to set up a time for an appointment and we can give you a recommendation based on the age and performance of your system. Contact us today to get a free estimate and expert advice on for making a smart decision.

Make Weatherproofing Improvements within Your Home

Of course, having a working and efficient heating system is critical for comfort throughout the winter, there are other factors at play in keeping your family warm this winter. Ensure you’re keeping the treated air in and the outdoor air out by taking steps like re-sealing any duct leaks you may have and adding weather-stripping to doors and windows. For more ideas about keeping the weather on the outside of your house, visit our post about keeping the heat out in the summer. Most of the steps for keeping the heat out will also keep out the cold. (For others – for example, when to open and close your curtains – you’ll just need to take the logical, opposite step.)

Invest in a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats, like the iComfort® S30 Ultra Smart Thermostat from our brand partner Lennox, not only help you manage the temperature in your home and maximize your energy efficiency, but they also make your life easier. One less thing to think about! A smart thermostat can be programmed to turn the temperature up and down on its own, based on patterns you set that sync with your family’s schedule. For example, you can set the thermostat to automatically drop the temperature at bedtime (which is better for getting good sleep, too) and then to kick it back up a notch right before the first person in your house rises for the day.

Smart thermostats pair with your home, as well as any “virtual assistants” (e.g., Alexa, Google Home) you have in your house. Thermostat settings and schedules are easy to update if your family’s comings and goings change, and you can even use your smart phone to make a change while you’re out and about! If you’re intrigued, visit this page to for more details on smart thermostats and their benefits.

Partner with Us!

For help with heating-related tasks on the above seasonal transition list, reach out to us and we’d be happy to assist. From furnace and heat pump inspections and maintenance to upgrading your heating system with efficient new equipment, our expert technicians provide the experience and services you need to ensure your home stays comfortable and efficient throughout the year.