How To Lower Heating Costs Without Replacing Your HVAC System
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
- [1:26] Why homeowners should test their heating systems before winter, and early warning signs of problems
- [4:23] The difference between a heating system check-up, tune-up, and system refresh
- [7:23] How to decide whether to repair or replace a furnace
- [8:32] Carbon monoxide safety tips for winter
- [9:31] The benefits of ductless mini-split systems for heating
- [11:17] How to prevent frozen pipes and winter plumbing issues
- [16:26] Massachusetts rebate changes and heat pump incentives
In this episode…
When temperatures drop, most homeowners assume their heating systems will fire up without issue. However, the winter season can expose small problems that have been quietly building for months. What simple steps can you take now to avoid costly breakdowns, frozen pipes, and mid-season emergencies?
Turn your heat on before you actually need it, says heating and plumbing expert Anthony Mound, who emphasizes testing systems in early fall to catch issues like dirty filters, airflow problems, or failing components before freezing weather hits. He recommends paying attention to smells, unusual noises, and inconsistent temperatures, checking breakers and thermostats before calling for service, and installing carbon monoxide detectors within six feet of fuel-burning appliances. For added efficiency, Anthony suggests considering ductless mini-splits for zoned control and exploring system refresh options to extend equipment life before committing to a full replacement.
In this episode of Everyday Comfort, Chad Franzen of Rise25 hosts Anthony Mound, Owner of Trust 1 Services, to discuss preparing your home for winter. Anthony shares why testing your heating system early prevents breakdowns, how to decide between repairing or replacing a furnace, and practical ways to prevent frozen pipes and reduce heating costs.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Quotable Moments:
- “Make sure you have [a] carbon monoxide detector within like six feet of a gas-burning appliance.”
- “It’s better off just to keep it at a certain temperature and then let it run.”
- “We check gas pressure. We check all the electrical connections and electrical components.”
- “We could do a refresh from anywhere from like two to three to four grand.”
- “Breakers, check your filters. Check your air filters. That’s important.”
Action Steps:
- Test your heating system before cold weather hits: Turning on your heat in early fall helps identify problems before freezing temperatures arrive. Catching issues early prevents emergency breakdowns and long wait times for service.
- Replace air filters and schedule annual maintenance: Clean filters and routine tune-ups improve airflow, efficiency, and overall system performance. Regular maintenance also extends equipment lifespan and reduces costly repairs.
- Install and regularly check carbon monoxide detectors: Properly placed and functioning detectors protect your household from exposure to dangerous gas. Testing annually and replacing units every five years ensures reliable safety.
- Keep your thermostat set consistently during winter: Frequent on-and-off cycles use more energy and increase wear. Maintaining a steady temperature improves comfort and efficiency.
- Protect plumbing from freezing temperatures: Insulate exposed pipes and remove garden hoses before frost to reduce the risk of burst pipes. Preventative steps save homeowners from expensive water damage and emergency repairs.
Sponsor for this episode…
This episode is brought to you by Trust 1, your reliable plumbing and HVAC contractor in Quincy, Massachusetts.
Our goal is to provide premier customer service that instills our customers with trust, confidence, and a unique experience.
Trust 1 strives to be the most recommended heating, cooling, and plumbing company in the South Shores.
To learn more about us and get in touch, visit https://www.trust1services.com/.
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