“5 DIY Tips” to Get Your “Heater” Ready for Winter

As you know, the winter season can get pretty brutal in Maine. From below zero temperatures to feet of snow, it’s important to have a heater that works properly all season long. Here are 5 DIY tips for preparing your heater so it can keep you warm when you need it most.

1. Replace Your HVAC Filter
As a general rule, you should replace your HVAC filter every season. During the fall, your filter collects dust, dirt, allergens, dander, and more; by the end of the season, it becomes congested and can’t filter your air as well as it should. To breathe the cleanest air, check to see what kind of filter your unit needs and pick one up at your local hardware or home improvement store.

2. Prepare Your Vents/Registers
We suggest dusting the vents or registers throughout your home before you use your heater. This will clear away any extra build-up that may end up in your air. In addition, check to make sure that nothing is obstructing the airflow from your vents and make sure your vents are opened all the way.

3. Remove Nearby Objects
Before you turn on your heater, remove any objects that are near your unit or on top of it. This includes things like boxes, furniture, storage containers, and more. Having objects nearby increases the risk of a fire, so keep yourself and your family safe.

4. Cover Up Your Condenser
If you have a traditional HVAC unit, buy a cover for your air conditioning condenser (the unit outside). By covering it up for the winter, you can prevent ice from collecting inside and prevent damage due to tree branches, debris, and more. Heat pumps are different, so if your HVAC unit is a heat pump, don’t cover it.

5. Turn Up the Thermostat
Before you use your heater on a regular basis, turn it on and test it to make sure it works properly. Turn your thermostat to “heat” and wait about a minute. You should hear the unit click on and your circulated air should become warm. Let the heat run for a few minutes to make sure your unit is ready to go.

 

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