The hit television series “Game of Thrones” has made “winter is coming” a popular catch phrase on social media. When we hear it, we can’t help but think of what homeowners should do to prepare their homes for the chilly weather ahead.

Fall is the perfect time to service your heating system. With the proper maintenance, you can minimize expensive breakdowns, reduce energy costs, and have fewer headaches. Don’t just take it from us, though. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends yearly tune-ups, too.

Here are a few things that you can do to prepare your home for winter:

• Change/replace the air filter. This is one of the most basic steps of HVAC maintenance. Simple yet effective, changing the filter enables you to rid your indoor air of allergens, keep your utility bill in check and ensure that your furnace operates at its very best.
• Check your home’s gutters. While cleaning the gutters can be a hassle, it’s an essential step in preparing your home for the winter season. With debris in your gutters, they can’t drain properly, causing water to pool inside of them. When that water freezes, it causes a buildup of ice that blocks off your gutters entirely. Ultimately, this can weigh your gutters down and cause them to fall and break.
• Test your home’s thermostat. Don’t wait for winter to arrive to make sure that your HVAC system is functioning properly. To test your thermostat this fall, turn the heat on and set the thermostat to your normal winter temperature. If the system doesn’t reach the temperature or if it takes a significant amount of time for it to do so, consult a technicians to have it inspected.
• Check for air leaks.

Insulation is crucial, in terms of boosting your home’s energy efficiency. So, before the blistering winds kick in this winter, check for gaps around windows and doors. If any gaps are discovered, use weather stripping or caulking to seal them.

TLC for Your Heating Unit
At Frog Heating & Air, our technicians have the skills and expertise to ensure that your heating system is operating safely and efficiently. We provide system inspections, seasonal maintenance and tune-ups, improving the function of your unit and prolonging its lifespan. To learn more about the benefits of routine maintenance or to speak with a team member, complete our online form today!