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If you haven't done so already, it's time to get to work and start winterizing your home. December is already here and the cooler weather is as well. In order to ensure the comfort of you and your family throughout the winter as you patiently await that lovely Florida summer, there are a few things you need to do. Don't worry, however, winterizing your Florida home isn't as difficult as it sounds. Here's how you should start:
Change your furnace filters
Simply turn on your furnace, let it run for about an hour, and then clean and change your filters. It's extremely easy to forget this home improvement task, which is why it's first on this list. Dirty filters can restrict airflow throughout your home and increase your monthly energy expenses. Try to get into the habit of not just changing your filters before the winter, but at least once a month. If you are staying on top of your furnace maintenance, you'll be able to save a significant amount of money in the long run, too, because you won't need to completely replace it if it's working properly.
Drain the pipes in your air conditioning units
Roughly two-thirds of all U.S. homes have AC units, but virtually every home in Florida is cooled by one of these appliances. During the cooler season, you'll save a lot of cash by simply draining any hoses and pipes within your AC unit. Be sure that there is no excess water pooled in or around your unit, too, because that can lead to serious problems. If your air conditioning unit has a water shutoff valve, you can turn that off for the next few months, as well. Don't just drain those pipes and hoses rapidly; the process should take some time. If you're unaware of how to properly drain your air conditioning hoses, contact a skilled air conditioning contractor.
Seal up your entire home
If there is even a small draft inside your home, you'll end up paying for it. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a single draft can waste up to 30% of your home's energy use. Purchase some draft snakes (or make them yourself) and place them in front of all your doors and windows. Take a look at your home's thermostat before and after you seal up the openings throughout your home, too. Your thermostat, if not checked too often, could be giving a false reading. Installing storm doors and windows is a great way to increase your home's energy efficiency as well.
Just because you live in Florida doesn't mean you have to ignore the upcoming winter. Luckily, you don't have to deal with snow or any of that northern nonsense, but you should still winterize your home in order to keep your family comfortable and your energy costs down. If you want to learn more about winterizing your Florida home or need professionals to take a look at your air conditioning units, speak with a reputable AC repair company today -- contact Total Air Inc.
