We’re looking forward to cooler weather in Metairie and other parts of the Greater New Orleans area, and we bet you are, too. But before the cooling season breathes its last breath and heating season commences, there are a few tasks you should perform to ensure the highest level of home energy efficiency to ensure the highest level of comfort at the lowest possible energy cost this winter. Here are some of the most important items for your fall home maintenance checklist.
HVAC Maintenance
One of the most important fall tasks is to schedule your annual heating system tune-up with a qualified technician from a reputable company. Regular maintenance helps ensure the highest level of energy efficiency, helps prevent common problems, and ensures cold-weather comfort at a lower price.
Stock up on air filters, and check your filter each month. A dirty filter restricts the flow of air, reducing efficiency and causing a host of operating problems, including overheating and expensive damage to essential components.
Air Sealing
Even the most efficient heating system will cost you more if you have air leaks in your home. They increase the heating load on the system and cause drafts and cold spots in your rooms. Seal with caulk and weatherstripping around windows and doors, service entrances, baseboards, and recessed lighting fixtures.
Check the Ducts
Leaky ducts can result in up to 40 percent of the air inside leaking out before it gets to your rooms. Seal loose joints with mastic duct sealant, and check for obstructions at the supply and return registers to increase comfort and prevent airflow problems.
Call in the Chimney Sweep
Have your fireplaces, wood burning stoves and chimneys inspected and cleaned by a professional to ensure carbon monoxide safety and prevent devastating fires. A smoky house is no fun either.
Replace the Batteries
Test the smoke and CO detectors in the home to ensure they’re in good working order. These essential alarms are your first defense against deadly carbon monoxide poisoning and household fires.
For more tips on essential fall home maintenance tasks for improved energy efficiency, please contact us in the New Orleans area at Bryans United Air Conditioning.
Written by Zach Mouton
Image Provided by Shutterstock.com
