The Northeast region is a place that experiences diverse weather patterns. You’ll see hot summers and cold winters, so homeowners must be prepared for what these temperatures do to their heating and cooling systems.
The Northeast region has eleven states within it, each with a different climate and temperature fluctuations. Summers are usually warm and humid, as temperatures average a 70°F to 80°F range. The winters can be harsh and average temperatures may drop below freezing, in the 20°F to 30°F range.
The changes in temperature and humidity affects your heating and cooling system. During the summer, air conditioning systems often work overtime in the home and in the winter, the heating systems are used often to combat the cold.
Extreme weather events, such as heat waves and polar vortexes, may strain HVAC systems. Therefore, homeowners in the Northeast should ensure their HVAC systems adapt to these diverse weather conditions.
If you’re ready for the next season, your HVAC system will be prepared, too. Schedule a maintenance check-up before the transition with a professional technician. Regular inspections help improve efficiency and can also result in saving up to 15% on energy bills.
Clean air filters ensure proper indoor air quality as they capture dust and allergens. If your air filters are clogged, the HVAC system works harder and increases energy consumption. Make sure the vents are clean and clear, too.
The outdoor unit can get dirt and debris accumulation which may affect system efficiency by up to 20%. Regular cleaning helps to safeguard against breakdowns and will prolong the system’s lifespan. Also, a clean unit saves energy and reduces your carbon footprint.
If you have air leaks in your home, this troublesome feature can waste up to 30% of warm air, increasing energy costs. Inspect your home for gaps or cracks in the windows, doors, and walls. Seal these leaks with weatherstripping and caulk to enhance heating efficiency.
It’s crucial to adjust thermostat settings during the fall and winter to maintain comfort and energy efficiency. By lowering the temperature a little bit while you’re out of town or asleep can save money, even up to 10% on annual heating costs.
Program a heating schedule to ensure your home has needed warmth but won’t use too much energy. Think about this: For every degree that you lower your thermostat for 8 hours, this will save you approximately 1% on your heating bill. A smart thermostat can help.
As you turn off your air conditioner as the seasons change, consider that air conditioners may consume somewhere up to 5% of U.S. electricity. Conserve energy and save money by shutting down the cooling system in the right way.
When it’s time to turn on the heat, think of this statistic from the U.S. Energy Information Administration: The fact that heating accounts for approximately 41% of household energy consumption. This is why efficient heating operation is essential.
When you turn the heat on, test it out to make sure it works well. Approximately 75% of the no-heat calls HVAC professionals receive in the winter are the result of a lack of maintenance. Check your system and help avoid emergency breakdowns.
It’s important to protect your HVAC system in the winter for longevity and efficiency purposes. The outdoor unit is vulnerable to harsh weather conditions, including snow and ice. Safeguard against issues by removing snow and ice from the unit.
Frozen pipes can also cause significant damage to the HVAC system. Insulate the exposed pipes and consider heat tape usage to prevent freezing. Also, keep your home adequately heated at all times to help prevent frozen pipes.
Regular maintenance will also help to keep your HVAC system in good condition during the winter. With a well-maintained HVAC system, your heating and air conditioning unit operates efficiently and does so with low energy costs. Schedule professional inspections for maintenance and repair.
Winterize the HVAC system to protect your investment and ensure it works well year-round.
Various heating systems are used in the Northeast. Some common types include furnaces, heat pumps, and boilers.
Furnaces are efficient heating systems that distribute warm air through ducts. The heat pumps provide both heating and cooling functions, but they may not be as efficient in extreme cold weather. Boilers heat homes by using hot water or steam and provide radiant heat which offers localized warmth.
It’s important to compare the pros and cons of each system. Furnaces are efficient but have initial high costs. Heat pumps are energy-saving in form but they may not work as well in really cold weather. Consider your needs and preferences to pick the right heating system for your home.
It’s important to identify potential problems that may arise when switching to heat in your home. Common issues may include uneven heating, strange noises coming from the system, or overall malfunctions.
For minor issues, you can troubleshoot via DIY methods which will save you time and money. You can perform simple tasks like checking areas for blocked vents, replacing air filters, and using the thermostat correctly. If the HVAC issues are larger, they may require professional attention.
It’s important to know when to seek professional assistance from qualified technicians.
Transitioning from cooling to heating in the home is essential for Northeast homeowners when the seasons change. Optimize your HVAC system’s performance via maintenance check-ups, air filter cleanings, and vent inspection. Adjust thermostat settings and upgrade to smart thermostats in order to further enhance energy savings.
When you have this knowledge, you can confidently manage switching from cooling to heating in your home.
