Baby, it’s cold outside! No, we’re not singing Dean Martin’s classic song “Baby It’s Cold Outside.” But it really is getting cold. As a homeowner, you’ll need to do quite a lot to your home to get it ready for winter.
One thing on the list of winterizing should be to have someone look at your air ducts.
As you close yourself off from the cold winter world and run artificial air, dirty ducts can blow all kinds of dirt and germs around. And without the lack of fresh air, this could worsen your or your family’s allergies and asthma symptoms.
Even if you and your family don’t suffer from these medical problems, dirty air can make you sick and damage your HVAC system. Here are a few ways to prep your air ducts for winter and tips on hiring a professional.
Replace Filters
One of the simplest things you can do to prepare your air ducts for winter is to change the filter. Unfortunately, many people forget about this simple task. But changing your filters regularly can go a long way toward keeping your furnace from working overtime and driving up bills. While most manufacturers recommend replacing your filters every three months for better energy efficiency, it may be ideal to replace them monthly.
This is especially true if you burn candles or notice lots of dust from your vents. Filters are affordable, and you can stock several in your home to have them ready to switch out as often as you need them.
Run Your Furnace Before Winter Sets In
Are you experiencing problems with air moving through your vents? The best way to know is to test your heater before winter starts. The last thing you need is to have a furnace problem but not address it until a frigid day in fall or winter. Everyone will be calling about emergency services then.
So instead of waiting until the cold weather sets in, running your heater in early fall is a good idea and ensuring there are no blockages or problems with airflow from your vents. If there are, you can address the issue by calling out professionals before the busy season.
Consider Installing a Smart Thermostat
Want a great way to reduce wear and tear on your air ducts? Using them less is one of the best ways to go. Years ago, you used to have to set your thermostat to a specific temperature before leaving your home to work.
Nowadays, smart thermostats are available to help you control your thermostat from your smartphone. This will allow you to help manage your furnace while you are away at home. And even if you don’t want to get out from underneath your cozy comforters on cold nights, you can grab your phone and turn your furnace up or down as necessary.
Get Air Ducts Cleaned
While cleaning your air ducts yourself is not advisable, you can hire a company to clean them for you. Over the years, dust can get embedded in your air ducts. Most of the dust may consist of lint and other particles floating in the air in your home.
However, you’ll be surprised to learn that this dust may also include dead bugs, skin cells, germs, mold, and other disgusting things that can lower your home’s air quality. Hiring a company that cleans air ducts will help eliminate these dust bunnies before winter and help keep you and your family from suffering from sinus and respiratory issues throughout winter.
Hiring an Air Duct Company
When you are ready to clean your air ducts, it is a good idea to hire a reputable cleaning company. Some companies focus strictly on air duct cleaning, while others may perform air duct cleaning and HVAC repairs. Expect to pay a minimum of $300 for full house duct cleaning, it could be more due to the size of your home. Prices may vary from state to state and company to company.
Asking the right questions will also get you the results you deserve from an air duct cleaning company. So, keep these few questions in mind when hiring an air duct company.
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- Will you clean my entire duct system?
- Do you replace old, worn ducts?
- How will you make sure my family and pets are safe during cleaning?
- What’s involved in the cleaning process?
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you have references?
- Are you licensed and insured? (This may not be required in some states)
If you are looking for a reputable air duct cleaning company, consider Unique Air Duct Cleaning in Livonia. We have been serving our local community for many years and our duct cleaning services are a step above due to our advanced cleaning system. Call today to schedule a Free estimate to get on your way to cleaner air.