Tips for Preparing Your Home for Winter!
With the colder weather on its way, you should be doing what you can to ensure everything is in order! Is your heating system functioning properly? Is your home ready for another Virginia winter? We’ll help you out with some easy tips that’ll answer these questions and help your home withstand the incoming low temperatures!
Let’s start with the most important aspect of your home comfort during the winter … your home’s heating system! It’s wise to test your heating system out before you need it so you can call for any repairs if necessary. To test it, just follow these simple steps:
- Turn up the heat at least five degrees higher than the current room temperature. If it’s a clock thermostat, make sure the timer is set correctly or place it in “manual” mode. A working heating system will spring into action in a minute or two, letting you know you’re ready to take on the winter! If it doesn’t turn on…
- Check your switches! Make sure the emergency switch and all other switches on the heating unit are on.
- Check for any blown fuses or tripped breakers. If necessary, replace any blown fuses or reset your circuit breaker.
- Check the oil. Check your tank gauge to see if there’s enough oil in the tank.
- Push the “Reset” button ONE TIME ONLY. If none of the above applies, find the reset button, which is usually located next to the burner. Do not press the reset button a second time under any circumstances.
How did it go? If your heating system kicked on without an issue, you’re in great shape! Now, let’s review some things you can do around the home to ensure a safe and comfortable retreat from winter weather…
- Replace filters regularly to promote strong air flow, and keep the air in your home clean as it circulates
- Clean air registers to improve the system’s efficiency, and keep vents clear of drapes, carpeting or furniture
- Test the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure you and your family’s safety
- Utilize a programmable or learning thermostat in order to better control your heating system and lower your energy costs
Keep all of these things in mind each year when the winter rolls around and you’ll always be one step ahead of Old Man Winter! And don’t forget, none of these tips are a replacement for regular maintenance performed on your heating system by Parker Oil Company! Contact us online to schedule your heating system tune-up today.
