Are you ready for the Christmas season? By now, you’ve likely planned out your holiday calendar for all the holiday festivities. You’ve thought about gifts for loved ones and family. You are getting all your shopping done and have started wrapping presents. Perhaps you have even put up decorations around your home. But have you considered your HVAC system in the middle of all the Christmas chaos? It’s important to take some precautionary steps during this time of year to ensure a cozy atmosphere and avoid unnecessary HVAC mishaps. So, please read on for some easy tips and advice from Xenia Heating & Air to help you enjoy a stress-free and comfortable holiday season in your home!
Consider Your HVAC Vents
First and foremost, bear in mind that Christmas decorations can take up a lot of space. However, it’s important to consider the placement of your decorations and seasonal items. It’s easy to get trapped in the mindset that “It’s only temporary.” But blocked off HVAC vents mean one thing – obstructed airflow. And when airflow is impeded, it will confuse your furnace, and can lead to very much what could have been a preventable heating issue. So, make sure to keep your vents clear and unobstructed for optimal performance this season! This means nothing should be placed on top of or in front of your vents that would cut off or reduce proper airflow.
Consider Your Thermostat
Another important thing to remember is that your thermostat can easily be overlooked during the decorating process. But similar to your HVAC vents, placing objects on top of, near, or in front of them can disrupt their functionality and result in the inaccurate temperature reading of your home. When your thermostat is reading your home’s temperature, this can confuse your furnace, and it will result in it producing excessive or inadequate heat, causing both discomfort and inefficiency. To avoid this, keep the area around your thermostat clear and refrain from using it to hang additional decorations.
Consider Your Other Heating Sources
To many, it’s important to create a cozy atmosphere around Christmas time. While it’s tempting to go all out and create a whimsical ambiance, it’s still essential to be cautious of flammable items around your other heating elements (I.e., fireplaces, candles, or space heaters). These flammable materials include but are not limited to blankets, garlands, paper decorations, or packages. You should always keep them at a safe distance from heat sources. Preventing fire hazards should be a top priority. Also, remember to properly extinguish or turn off any heating elements before leaving the house or going to bed.
Consider Your Condenser
This last tip is one that may not even have crossed your mind this season. But during the winter, it’s important to occasionally check on your outdoor unit (the condenser), even if it is not in use this season. While it’s designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, it’s still a good habit to ensure it remains free from loose debris like leaves, sticks, twigs, or stray outdoor items. When coupled with heavy snow and ice, debris and loose items can potentially damage your unit. So, be sure to make it a habit and periodically check that the space surrounding your unit remains free of clutter this season. Moreover, you can consider using a condenser cover for added protection this season.
At Xenia Heating & Air, we know how crucial it is to have a safe and comfortable Christmas. That’s why we provide round-the-clock emergency services, ensuring you can enjoy the holiday season without any worries. We wish you and your family a warm and joyful holiday season! Stay safe and enjoy this wonderful time of year with your loved ones.
Call us at (937) 708-8451, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!