While there isn’t any snow during winter in San Fernando Valley, the weather can get severely cold, dry and harsh. This makes it a challenge to make it through the rough weather in this area in a comfortable way without getting your energy bills high. However, if you are careful and prepare your house for winter with some easy fixes, you can keep it warm naturally without having to turn on the heating too high. Here are some easy tips you can try:
#1 Switch to a Programmable Thermostat
A lot of people have realized in the past few years how beneficial having a programmable thermostat can be for them. This single upgrade to their heating and air conditioning system can save them from massive energy bills, especially in places like San Fernando Valley where weather tends to get extreme often. With a programmable thermostat, it’s up to you to decide when and how much you want your house to be heated up. So, when you are out for work for eight to ten hours, you can turn off the heating and program it to turn on half an hour before you are supposed to be home.
#2 Use Draft Stoppers
Spaces between the doors and floors, especially in older houses, are some of the major areas from where cold air drifts in during winter. To keep this chilly draft out, you should use stoppers at the bottom of your door. You can get door stoppers, usually made from foam, in the market readily. You can get those or simply make your own decorative draft stoppers by filling in a fabric tube with sand and sewing it up from the sides. Both ways, it will keep the cold out of your house to a great extent.
#3 Clean the Heating System Filters
The heating filter systems perform inefficiently when they are filled with dust and debris, resulting in increased use of the heating system and higher energy bills. By getting the filters properly cleaned, maintained and replaced on time, you can make your heating system work more efficiently. The right time for getting your filters replaced is always mentioned in the manual you get. If you are not sure about how to clean the filters on your own, check the manual or get a professional to do it for you.
A few simple heating system and AC repairs in the right seasons can help you save a lot in terms of energy bills. Knowing the right seasonal times to schedule proper HVAC setups matters a lot when you are living in the desert-like climate of San Fernando Valley.
This article was provided by American AC Heat Plumbing. Since 1981, American Air has been providing professional air conditioning and heating service and repair. Check out their $99 tune-up special – good for your air conditioner or furnace!