Fall is finally here. That means falling leaves, cardigan sweaters and fun holidays are right around the corner! Unfortunately, that also means rain, sleet and eventual snow are on their way, too. Have you checked your tankless water heater or air conditioning recently? The last thing you want when it starts getting chilly is a lack of temperature regulation in your home, which can leave you prone to common illness, frozen pipes and even the development of mold! Below are the top five tips to preparing your home for the wind and snow, from repairing your tankless water heater to common construction projects.
Check Your Air Conditioning
Air conditioning is more than just a comfort — it’s a necessity to circulate the air in your home, clean out any lingering bacteria or pollen and maintain a healthy temperature when it starts getting chilly outside. Two-thirds of all homes in the United States have an air conditioner installed — switching to high-efficiency air conditioners, as well as taking other actions around your home, can reduce both energy waste and general energy bills.
Replace That Tankless Water Heater
Did you know the majority of tankless water heaters have a life expectancy of over 20 years? That’s quite a lot of bang for your buck! A tankless water heater generally provides hot water at a rate of two to five gallons per minute, though your model may differ depending on the brand. If your shower or bath isn’t retaining the same heat it used to, you may want to consider checking your tankless water heater. Old water heaters have even been found to account for more than 30% of your home’s energy consumption!
Repair Your Furnace
You might have to go a different route if you have a furnace instead of a tankless water heater. A well-maintained furnace can last an average of 15 to 18 years, though you should always double-check it when winter rolls around. The lowest efficiency allowed by law for new gas furnaces is 78%, with some of the newer models achieving 97%. However, even the best repair won’t do much if you leave your windows open or have a poor flooring installation.
Practice Good Habits
Of course, it’s not just your tankless water heater or old furnace that’s not providing you with the heat you need. There are many different ways you can lose temperature in your home and, indirectly, lose hundreds of dollars per year. Your windows and doors can be a source of heat loss — air can easily filter through the cracks, making this season perfect for replacement windows or door installations. If you want to save a little money on your heating bill, a heated blanket will go a long way in keeping you snuggly without wearing down your wallet!
Staying Warm This Winter
The last thing you want to be caught without this winter is a good tankless water heater, furnace or air conditioning. Even minor leaks or cracks in your sewer foundation should be repaired before it starts getting icy, as the holidays and bills are expensive enough without adding future installations to the mix! An air conditioning professional can give your entire house a once-over and decide what you need to stay warm around Christmas. Even better, they can give you additional tips for saving money and keep you from reaching for your wallet when it gets cold. Now that you’re caught up, enjoy the fall and winter season with confidence!