Holiday Home Prep: HVAC Tips for the Winter
-
As the holidays approach and colder weather settles in, it’s time to prep your home for festive holiday gatherings. Before long, guests will be arriving, and the celebrations will be in full swing. If you have parties planned, now’s the time to start your holiday home prep and ensure whole-home comfort for everyone.
Ready to make your season merry and bright? Our list offers essential HVAC tips for winter to keep your home comfortable throughout the season.
Holiday Home HVAC Checklist: 5 Must-Do’s!
Before hosting a houseful of guests, we encourage you to make a list (and check it twice) to ensure you’re prepared. Here are five ways to start.
1. Replace and Clean Air Filters
Never overlook the importance of your air filters. These unsung heroes are the backbone of an efficient system.
- New air filters will help improve your airflow and reduce the strain on your system.
- Replace every three months, or more often if you have pets.
- Need help choosing an air filter? Click here.
2. Clean Vents and Registers
No one wants to entertain guests in a dirty house! Keeping tabs on clean vents is a must.
- Vacuum, dust, and remove obstructions from vents and registers (guests with allergies will thank you) before any parties.
- Check that airflow is balanced properly throughout all rooms.
3. Inspect Ductwork
While some ductwork is hidden, this doesn’t mean it should be ignored.
- Inspect visible sections of ductwork for leaks, gaps, or insulation issues. (This is important if you notice uneven cooling throughout your home.)
- Call a professional to seal ducts if you notice issues. This will help improve system efficiency and maintain consistent heat.
4. Consider a Smart Thermostat
Saving energy isn’t just convenient during the holidays—it’s essential all year long. Here’s a hot tip on how to do it.
- Upgrade to a smart thermostat. These systems can learn your home’s patterns and adjust temperatures accordingly (when you’re sleeping and when you’re away), so you save energy and money. They also offer controls right from your smartphone.
5. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
Don’t forget to give yourself peace of mind this season. Here’s how:
- Call AJ Perri to schedule your HVAC holiday preventative inspection. Yearly HVAC winter maintenance can help your home remain comfortable not just for those holiday parties, but also throughout the new year.
Need service? Schedule online now!
Insider Tips for Preparing for Guests and Holiday Activities
Changing filters and scheduling HVAC winter maintenance shouldn’t come as a surprise when it comes to holiday home prep. But these might. Here are three lesser-known tips that our pros swear by:
1. Adjust Temperature Settings During Parties
Warm bodies mean more heat. Lower the thermostat when entertaining to save on heat, energy, and money. If you have a zoned heating system, it’s the perfect time to use it.
Quick Thermostat Tips!
- Home & awake: ~68°F
- Sleeping: 60–65°F
- Away from home: 58–62°F
- Hosting guests: Lower your usual setting by 2–4 degrees — extra body heat warms the space.
2. Schedule Professional Chimney Cleaning
Do you plan on creating a festive ambience by lighting a real fireplace? Be sure you have your chimney professionally cleaned beforehand. (Built-up creosote can cause fires!)
3. Add Weatherstripping
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends weather stripping to help with energy savings and retain warmth.
Post-Holiday HVAC Checklist
Once the celebrations are over, give your HVAC system a quick refresh:
- Replace the air filter. Extra guests mean more dust and airflow blockage.
- Reset your thermostat to normal temperature.
- Clear vents and registers. Move decorations, furniture, and clutter out of the way.
- Check the furnace area. Ensure that nothing is stored too close to the unit.
- Listen for unusual sounds. Holiday strain can reveal early issues.
- Schedule HVAC winter maintenance if needed. If you skipped a tune-up before the holidays, this is a great time to catch up.