Guest Writer: Ella Colgin of Gundlach Plumbing and Heating Company
Summer is gone and before we know it, cooler weather will be here. Although we don’t see the sub-zero temperatures of some of our colder states, we do need some level of heating during most of the winter months.
The days are getting shorter and the cool crisp air of autumn is moving in so we know cooler temperatures are on the way to stay for a while. But don’t wait until winter to check out your heating system. Now is the time, while the temperature is mild, to prepare for the cold blasts of winter and the busy Holiday Season. Taking a little time for preparation and maintenance of your heating system can save you lots of money later for repairs. And you’ll also enjoy lower utility bills when your heating system is in tip-top shape.
What should you do to get ready for cooler weather and does it really matter? The quick answer is there are lots of simple, inexpensive and even free things you can do – and YES, it does matter!
Our experts at Gundlach Plumbing and Heating have some suggestions for homeowners. These are quick and easy ideas for any homeowner and they will definitely pay off.
Let the Professionals Help
Get your heating units checked & cleaned
If you don’t have a maintenance program for your HVAC system, invest in one now. A maintenance program can ensure that your heating system is working well before the really cold weather is upon us. Regular maintenance can also lower your energy usage costs and ensure that problems with your equipment are caught in the early stages, saving you $$ if repairs are needed. Right now, the Energy Savings Agreement at Gundlach Plumbing and Heating Co. is still a great bargain at only $189 per year; plus ESA customers receive special discounts.
Even without a maintenance agreement, you should at least have your heating system cleaned thoroughly by a professional. This will not only save you money, but may save lives as well. Whether you choose Gundlach or someone else for this work, you’ll be glad you did when winter blasts hit!
Have your ductwork inspected
Leaks in your ductwork can seriously compromise the efficiency of your heating system. Years of vibration can sometimes cause the ductwork to develop leaks or even become completely disconnected, sending your conditioned air into your crawlspace, attic or walls and leaving your living area without heat. That’s a lot of money spent on air to warm up the attic and crawlspace!
You may be able to perform a visual inspection by yourself, but most often, ductwork is hidden making it difficult to access. Ductwork can also become dirty if air filters are left off the system. Periodically, have the ductwork checked. Dirty ductwork can harbor bacterial and fungal organism that can make you and your family sick when your house is sealed during the winter.
Check your chimney
If you have a fireplace, now is the time to have it cleaned and checked, before you begin to use it. Creosote build-up in your chimney can ignite and cause a house fire. Approximately 20,000 house fires each year start in a fireplace chimney. This quick inspection can save you lots of money and reduce worry about chimney fires.
If you are not using the fireplace, close the damper or seal it off. Leaving the damper open is no different than leaving a window open. Keep it closed to keep warm air in and cold air out.
Check your plumbing
You may not realize it, but plumbing inspections are also important. We suggest you invest in a whole house plumbing inspection. Ask the technician to check for insulation on the water piping in your crawl space and for openings in the foundation that may direct cold air onto the piping. This can save you a lot by protecting your piping from freezing.
Gundlach offers the whole house plumbing inspection for $150 which is a deal when you consider how much money can be saved by plugging leaks and insulating pipes. Gundlach will label your main cut off so that, if you do have a plumbing disaster, you can quickly cut off the water until the repair can be made. This will cut down on the amount of water lost and the extent of damage. Once again, whether you choose Gundlach or someone else to conduct this inspection, it is money well spent.
What can Homeowners Do?
Professionals are sometimes needed to inspect, update, maintain, and repair your HVAC systems. But there are some things that homeowners can do to avoid costly expenses down the road.
Cover unused AC condensing units
This will lengthen the life of the unit, as long as you make sure to uncover it before you turn it on next spring. Do Not cover any unit that is in use now or will be used during the Fall/Winter.
Trim and clean up around your outdoor Heat Pump unit
You should keep an air space of 18” to 36” on all sides of your heat pump’s outdoor unit and 3’ to 4’ air space above the unit. Cut back plants and shrubs that are too close and any branches that are hanging too low. Remove debris, leaves and snow drifts.
Replace the batteries in your CO2 detectors
If you don’t own a carbon monoxide detector, consider buying one for the safety of you and your family. They are inexpensive when compared to the lives and property they save. Around 200 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning. Thousands more are sickened. Don’t be a statistic – keep your family safe.
Disconnect hoses from bibs
Many people overlook this simple task that will avoid freezing and breaking. The exposed valve you connect your hose to and its related piping may freeze and break if it is left connected. Remember that if you need to reconnect and use your hoses during the colder seasons, you should disconnect them each time.
Check for openings in your crawl space
Venting in your crawl space can direct air onto a water line. If you find any openings, cover them to keep cold air out during the winter.
Check for air leaks around window and doors
Even small gaps around windows and doors can significantly affect your comfort during cold weather, which, in turn, will affect your pocketbook. All those little leaks add up; keeping the heating system running longer to keep you comfortable. This is bad for your heating system and your bank account. Seal around windows and doors with weather stripping or caulking and behind switch and socket covers with foam pads. These small changes can make a really big difference.
The owners of Gundlach Plumbing and Heating (Lorrie Gore, Linda Stevens, and Betty Gregory) are committed to the highest levels of HVAC services and outstanding customer service. Their business was built and grew through their ongoing commitment to excellence. The owners and staff take pride in helping Richmond homeowners maintain their HVAC systems in an efficient and cost-effective manner.
The owners of Gundlach extend their spirit of customer service into the community through their support of many fundraising efforts. This women-owned business is an example of a locally owned business that continually focuses on the needs of others and provides valuable services and community support. We are proud to have them represented on Richmondmom.com!
Click here to learn more about the company and the owners. And if you’re in need of a new system, check out their fantastic Fall specials.
