How To Prep Your HVAC System for Winter in Georgia

Winter is one of the most high-risk times of year for HVAC systems for Georgia home owners. While the heavy winds, dry cold spells, and low temperatures don’t last long, they can quickly damage older and unprepared HVAC systems. Here are our top tips for winterizing your HVAC system in Georgia.

Don’t wait to do repairs.

If you’re reluctant to update your HVAC system, here are some factors to consider about the costs:

• Home Advisor experts say that full HVAC unit replacement costs between $8,000-$12,000.
• The average cost of a full HVAC replacement is about $9,000.
• One-time repairs for issues spotted early typically cost only $300-800.

Avoiding these issues can help you save on unnecessary costs—and keep your home warm all season.

Use a well-fitted cover on your outdoor AC unit.

The most basic way to keep your HVAC system secure is by using a well-fitted cover. However, we don’t recommend hosing down your HVAC to remove debris, even when covered. The water may damage the fan or other key internal parts.

Be sure to pick a cover that allows for full airflow, especially if you have a dual heating and cooling outdoor AC unit. If you’re on a budget, you can use a fresh tarp weighed down by a brick or a stone on each corner.

Wipe down your ducts and grills.

How you maintain your home also affects your HVAC system. Keeping the windows and doors closed all winter allows dust, pet dander, textile particles, and other forms of debris to accumulate in the ducts and grills.

Using a soft cloth with a small amount of cleaning solution, wipe down the edges and interior of each grill. Preventing debris from entering your HVAC unit promotes full airflow. This also helps keep your utility bill in check.

Replace your air filters.

It’s important to change your air filters at least every 90 days. If you have pets, shorten that time frame to 60 days. And if your area has been experiencing high winter winds for more than a few days, change your air filters when the bad weather passes. ‍

Fix old or failing ductwork.

Issues with your ductwork often become noticeable only during the winter when the heat works less efficiently. Your ducts need to be replaced around every 10-15 years. Failing to update your ducts can also allow more allergens, pests, and poorly heated (or cooled) areas to affect your home.

Call Southeast to Restore or Replace Your HVAC System

If you have high heating and cooling bills, notice a strange smell when you turn on your HVAC system or detect damaged ductwork, get in touch with us. Southeast helps home owners in and around Sugar Hill, Georgia prepare their HVAC systems for the winter at a reasonable cost. Give us a call at (770) 265-8308 for more information or to schedule HVAC service. We send our expert technicians to your home to evaluate your HVAC system before we conduct repairs.

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