We do a lot of things to prepare for winter each year, like raking the leaves, getting our snow tires installed, and replacing our screens with glass, but we also assume that a lot of things need no preparation and will be ready the moment the temperature drops and we need them. Below is a list of tips for preparing your whole home for the winter months.

Change Filters

Once your furnace is fired up for the winter, it’ll likely be running continuously for months before it’s no longer needed, so you’d probably prefer to have it working without interruption so it can do its job. An overused filter is an extremely common cause for interruption and an easy one to prevent. A fresh filter will help you save money by not overworking your furnace, and boosting your health by removing contaminants.

Insulate Your Attic

One of the easiest ways to save money and help keep your furnace operating at peak efficiency is by insulating your attic. Hot air rises, and a properly insulated attic will help keep all the hot air your furnace has worked to produce inside, saving energy and money.

Cover Outdoor A/C Unit

The most overlooked preparation tip for your home to survive the winter is the protection of your outdoor A/C unit. Just because it’s outdoors does not mean it’s fit to face the winter! Placing a cover over your outdoor unit will protect it substantially from debris and weathering, and help it last many years longer.

Have Your System Checked By a Professional

The most important thing you can do to protect your HVAC system and yourself from the cold this winter is to have it checked by a professional before the winter begins. There is nothing worse than having no heat in the dead of winter, so ensuring that your furnace will last through the cold temperatures is, if nothing else, a great way to ease your nerves.