How to Prepare Your Heater for Winter in Phoenix AZ

Cold weather isn’t something we think about regularly here in Chandler, AZ. Just because we don’t think about turning on our heaters often, doesn’t mean we should go without preparing our HVAC system for the winter season. The chilly nights and mornings will be here before we know it and the last thing you want to do is discover your heater isn’t working when it’s 30-50 degrees outside. 

Below are some important steps you can take to help keep your heater running properly during the Phoenix winter.

Check Your Thermostat

Don’t wait until it gets cold outside to find out that your heater won't turn on. You should test your heating system on a cool weathered day when neither your air conditioner nor your heater are needed. Test your system by switching the thermostat over from cooling to heating and setting the temperature a few degrees higher than it currently is. Once you hear the system kick on, listen for any unusual noises. If you already have a digital thermostat, don’t forget to reprogram it for the winter temperatures. 

Visual Inspection

You should look over your heating and cooling system to see if you notice any parts that look like they maybe loose or damaged. Check the area around your unit(s) and clear it of any dirt or debris. Once the system is running, listen for any strange noises and smell for any odd odors. It is also a good idea to go through your home or office and check all vents and registers. Make sure that they are clean and clear of any debris that may restrict airflow. If you notice anything strange while inspecting your system, please contact a professional .

Replace Your Filters

Start the season out right, with new and clean air filters. Dirty air filters are one of the top causes for problems with your HVAC system. That is because dirty and clogged air filters restrict the air flow causing your system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This restriction plus the build up from the particles that slip through the filter puts an extra load on the components which can cause them to wear out sooner than they should. New and clean air filters will not only improve the air quality, it will also boost the efficiency of your HVAC system. 

Schedule a Maintenance

The easiest way to ensure your heating and cooling system remains in tip-top shape is by scheduling routine maintenance. We recommend checkups every spring and fall. Remember to schedule your HVAC system Tune-up with a professional technician before winter arrives. Having your system serviced is an easy way to help prevent you from getting stuck in the cold while waiting for a heating repair. It can also alert you to minor issues giving the technician a chance to correct them before they become large-and costly-problems. During the maintenance inspection, the technician will clean and fine-tune your system, check for any possible needed repairs that may get worse over time, and take care of adjusting any minor components to ensure your heater is operating at its best. Checking your heating and ac system regularly can also help prolong the life of your HVAC system.