During the wet winter season in Vancouver, BC, ensuring your HVAC system is in top shape is key to staying warm and comfortable. A well-maintained HVAC system helps you maintain a cozy home and prevents breakdowns during the harshest weather.

Replace Your Air Filter

Before the winter chill hits, check your air filter. If it looks dirty or clogged, it’s time to replace it. A clean filter allows air to flow freely through the system, improving efficiency and reducing strain on its components. Depending on the filter you use, replacing it every one to three months is recommended. During the winter, when your heating system is running more often, you might need to replace the filter more frequently to keep things running smoothly.

Don’t Let Cold Air In

Take a close look at the seals around your windows and doors. Any small cracks or gaps you find could be letting valuable warm air slip away. If you spot these sneaky leaks, it’s time to take action. Sealing holes with weather stripping or glue is a simple and effective way to keep the heat inside and ease the strain on your heating system.

For extra protection, you might want to add thermal shades to older windows that are more likely to let drafts in. These window coverings help keep the cold out and add a cozy touch to your space. By blocking leaks, you’re not just keeping your home warmer — you’re also cutting down on energy waste, which can lead to noticeable savings on your heating bill. A little time spent sealing those gaps can make a big difference in comfort and cost efficiency.

Watch Out for Power Surges

During winter, power surges are more common due to frequent storms or the heavy use of electrical appliances. These surges can cause significant damage to your HVAC system, especially to sensitive components like the thermostat, motors, and circuit boards. Hiring a professional to install a surge blocker made just for HVAC equipment is one of the smartest things you can do to protect your system from electrical problems.

These powerful devices act like a safety net, rerouting excess voltage away from your system and sparing crucial components like circuit boards and motors. If you happen to live in an area where power outages, thunderstorms, or voltage fluctuations are regular occurrences, a whole-home surge protector might be your best bet.

Test Your Furnace or Heat Pump

Before you rely on your heating system to get you through the winter, it’s a good idea to give it a test run. This will give you a chance to identify any issues before they become major problems. Turn your thermostat up a few degrees and listen for any odd noises coming from your furnace or heat pump. Pay attention to how long it takes for the system to heat up and if it’s maintaining a consistent temperature throughout your home.

If you notice anything weird, such as strange noises or inconsistent heating, it’s time to call a professional. Issues like a malfunctioning thermostat, clogged burners, or low refrigerant can prevent your system from performing at its best, and addressing these problems early can help you avoid a costly breakdown in the middle of winter.

Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clean (Heat Pump Homes)

If you have a heat pump, don’t forget about the outdoor unit. The heat pump brings heat in from the outside and can be affected by the debris and dirt that accumulate around it. Before winter, clear away any leaves, branches, or dirt that may have collected around the unit. If you live in an area where snow is common, be sure to keep the unit free of snow and ice. Blocked airflow can reduce the heat pump’s efficiency and even cause it to fail.

Take a few minutes to inspect the outdoor unit, making sure it’s not obstructed by anything that could block the airflow. If the coils are dirty, gently rinse them with water to remove debris. Keeping the outdoor unit clean and clear will help it operate efficiently and extend its lifespan.

Clean Your Ductwork and Vents

Your HVAC system’s ducts and vents are essential for distributing warm air throughout your home. If they are dirty or clogged, airflow can slow down, warmth can be uneven, and the system will not work as well as it should. Before it gets cold, you should clean out your pipes and vents to make sure your HVAC system can get heat to the places you need it most.

Start by inspecting the vents in each room of your home, making sure they are free of dust, debris, and obstructions. You can clean them with a vacuum or a damp cloth to remove any buildup. If you see a large amount of dust or dirt in your ductwork, schedule a professional cleaning.

Thermostat Setting Adjustment

Before the coldest winter weather settles in, check the thermostat settings. If your thermostat can be programmed, make sure it’s set to a plan that works for your heating needs. You can set it to lower the temperature while you’re at work or asleep and then raise it when you get home or wake up.

If your thermostat is outdated or doesn’t seem to be working properly, consider upgrading to a more modern, energy-efficient model. Many smart thermostats allow you to control your home’s temperature remotely from your smartphone, giving you even more flexibility to adjust heating when you need it.

Attic Insulation Needs

Without sufficient insulation, your HVAC system will have to work harder to keep warmth, which can increase energy consumption and cause your system to wear out faster. Focus on important areas such as the attic, crawl spaces, and around any exposed pipes.

Head up to the attic and look for any spots where the insulation might be thinning or where it’s settled over time. If you notice any gaps or uneven areas, it’s a good idea to add more insulation. This simple fix can boost your home’s energy efficiency and keep things warmer during the colder months. Don’t forget to check the insulation around pipes as well, especially those in unheated areas like the basement or attic.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

While there are several things you can do to winterize your HVAC system yourself, it’s always a good idea to schedule a professional inspection before the coldest months hit. An HVAC technician can thoroughly check your system, inspecting key components like the furnace, heat pump, ducts, and thermostat. With an expert tune-up for your furnace or other heating system, you can make sure that it’s running at its best. The technician will also clean and fix any parts that need it.

Call Us to Get Ready for the Coldest Winter Weather

Getting your HVAC system ready for the worst of winter doesn’t have to be a stressful task. By tackling a few simple maintenance tasks now, you can keep your system running smoothly throughout Vancouver’s colder months. Our Season Saver Membership is a great way to get free tune-ups and ensure you don’t forget about maintenance; you even get discounts should you need any repairs or new equipment.

At Western Pacific Heating, Cooling & Airflow, we’re ready to help you prepare your HVAC system for the season ahead. We also offer heat pumps, furnaces, indoor air quality, air purification, ductless AC, and new construction services.

Contact us today to schedule a winter checkup and ensure your home stays warm and cozy throughout the cold season.

Western Pacific Heating, Cooling & Airflow

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