Written on: April 4, 2022
As Winter turns to Spring, many of us are looking forward to turning off the heat in our homes. That’s not only because of the craziness of fuel prices lately but because we’re wanting to get outside and enjoy fresh air and warmer weather.
There are a few things you need to do to make sure your Hudson Valley home is ready for Spring. These tips not only help you save money on energy costs, but help make your home more comfortable all year-round.
How did your furnace or boiler do this winter? Was it efficient? Did you have any breakdowns? Is it starting to show its age?
The beginning of spring is a good time to ask these questions, as you may need to assess whether you need to.
If your heating system is in good shape, now is a good time to schedule a tune-up so it will be ready to go whenever next heating system begins.
As Spring arrives, many of us may still need to run our furnaces at least at night. But the plants, trees, and flowers coming back to life can bring pollen into our homes. There’s also the accumulation of dirt and dust from the winter.
All of these can combine to clog your air filter. A clogged air filter reduces energy efficiency, driving up your heating costs. The dust, dirt, and pollen can also damage parts in your furnace. That damage can cause a breakdown or shorten the life expectancy of your heating furnace.
Now is a good time to swap out your air filter for a fresh, clean one.
Don’t forget about the refrigerator while cleaning your house! It consumes around 15% of the energy used in a home. Pull the fridge carefully from the wall and vacuum the coils in the back. Clean the insides of your refrigerator and freezer, too, and get rid of expired items. A refrigerator that is overstuffed inhibits the circulation of the chilled air, forcing your refrigerator to work harder to maintain a safe temperature. Vacuum your HVAC system’s vents. If your ductwork hasn’t been cleaned in the last three to five years, now is a good time to do it.
Your first impression about drafts is most likely about heat loss in the winter. They also bring warm air into the home during the spring and summer, driving up your energy costs for fans and A/Cs. Caulking, weatherstripping, and expanding foam can help maintain your home’s cool air inside. This is also a great time to make sure your house is properly insulated and add more if required. The U.S. Department of Energy has a good guide on insulation needs.
Be ready for all kinds of weather with Kimlin Energy! Contact us today to learn more about our services.