As the cooler weather approaches, homeowners need to consider the importance of preparing their air conditioners for winter. This maintenance is essential even if you plan on not using them for the next few months.  Proper care extends the lifespan of your air conditioning unit and ensures its efficiency and readiness for when the warmer weather returns. Let’s explore the best practices to winterize your air conditioner to make sure it remains in optimal condition. Turn Off the Unit This step is the first thing to do before you clean your AC. Cutting off the power to the system will also prevent it from switching on during unusually warm winter days, which can be unnecessary and cause wear. Clean the System Before the cold season sets in, clear any accumulated debris, such as leaves and dirt, from around the unit to avoid blockages and possible damage. Additionally, trim any branches or bushes that have grown too close to your outdoor equipment. Ensure at least a few feet of clear space on every side for safety and efficiency. Change or Remove Dirt From the Air Filters Your air conditioner’s filter probably needs some attention after working hard throughout the summer to keep you cool. It’s recommended that most AC filters be cleaned or replaced once a year to enhance energy efficiency.  If it’s time to replace yours, install the new filter into the system right away, saving you the hassle when summer rolls around again. For those with a reusable filter, a rinse under running water and soaking it will ensure a thorough cleaning. Cover the Unit  To prepare your AC for winter, place a breathable material over the top of the outdoor unit to safeguard it against snow, ice, and debris. This method helps prevent moisture from building up, and it can be as straightforward as using a piece of plywood with a weight on top to secure it.  Set a Date for Professional Maintenance It’s crucial to perform regular seasonal maintenance to avoid potential issues and ensure your system is running at its best. Make a point to arrange for an end-of-season maintenance with a qualified HVAC technician. They can identify any possible concerns and prepare your unit for the upcoming winter. Choose Haha’s Heating and Cooling LLC Ready to ensure your air conditioner is set for the colder months ahead? Winterizing your AC is crucial, and there’s no better team to trust with this than Haha’s Heating and Cooling LLC in Gladstone, Missouri. Our skilled technicians are experts at preparing your system to ensure it’s in peak condition, saving you from potential issues when you need it the most. Contact us today to winterize your air conditioner and enjoy peace of mind all season long.

A cold house is hardly anyone’s preference during chilly weather. Your breath turning to mist as you enter a room is hardly welcoming, driving you to try anything to warm up your home quickly. Yet, a few practices might be hiking up your energy costs without you realizing it. Let’s explore some common mistakes made in heating homes, from running the heat continuously to ignoring heater maintenance, and how you can avoid them moving forward. Keeping the Heat on Constantly Apart from being costly, leaving the heat on when your house is empty also wears down your heating system. Turn off the thermostat when you go out, and consider installing a smart or programmable one to save on costs without sacrificing comfort. These thermostats can modify the temperature based on your set schedule and automatically warm up your home before you return. Turning Up the Heat While it might be tempting to raise the temperature higher than usual, keeping it steady or gradually increasing the heat as needed is much more effective at warming up your home. Instead of overworking your heating system for cold rooms, consider a portable space heater or install a ductless air handler for more efficient, zoned temperature control. Letting Heat Escape Allowing drafts into your home means losing heat. Examine every window and door for signs that they might require caulking, weather stripping, window film, or door sweeps. In some cases, particularly with single-pane windows, a complete replacement may be necessary. Moreover, if there’s rot, cracks, or damage present around the window’s jamb and casing, replacing the window frames is also needed. Closing Air Vents in Unused Rooms Shutting vents in empty spaces might seem like a way to save money, but this could actually cause problems with circulation and potentially lead to costly repairs. You could run into possible heating system issues, such as carbon monoxide leaks or damaged ductwork. Neglecting Heater Maintenance Like most systems with working components, your heating unit requires regular upkeep. Ensuring your equipment operates optimally can maximize efficiency and help avoid expensive repairs down the line. With regular check-ups, you can identify and address problems with your heater that cause increased bills. Contact Us for a Warmer and More Cost-Effective Home As the chill of winter draws near, ensuring your living space stays cozy and warm is more important than ever. Contact Haha’s Heating and Cooling LLC in Gladstone, Missouri to ensure your home heating system runs smoothly and efficiently all season long. Whether you need a routine check-up or emergency heating repair, our experienced technicians are here to help.