It gets cold here in Michigan, which means we’re used to a whole different set of problems than other homeowners around the country. Cold and dry winters and falls bring along with them a whole host of issues that we need to be prepared for. Part of being a homeowner is being proactive and ready for anything that’s bound to come your way. Sound daunting? Let us help!
Today we’re going to talk about some HVAC tips for your Michigan home. Some HVAC contractors in Grand Rapids, MI might avoid telling you how to prepare for the winter, hoping that you call them more frequently with panicked requests. We’re not that kind of contractor. If you can spend more time this winter relaxing and less time calling us, no offense, but we’d be perfectly happy with that result.
A Michigan Fall and Winter
Grand Rapids acquires an average of 64 inches of snowfall per year. We hate to be the bearers of bad news, but that is a very large amount of snow. We know that’s not news to any of us here, but just knowing how much snow we get compared to other areas of the country can be an eye-opener. Snowfall comes with cold temperatures, low air pressure, and dry humidity. These are problems we need to be prepared for when gearing up our heaters.
Seal Your Home Tightly
When things get really cold, your heater is going to need all the help it can get. Take a stroll through your home and try to feel where the drafts are coming from. Maybe you can finally plug up that basement door with the crack in it, or put plastic wrap over the single pane windows in your attic. These minor improvements can actually make a huge difference in your heating bill and the condition of your heater. The less hard it has to work, the better off you’ll be!
Invest in a Humidifier
Dry temperatures don’t sound that bad compared to muggy temperatures, but they can be brutal on our furniture, homes, and health. For starters, any antique furniture you have that’s made out of wood will start to crack and break without the right humidity levels in your home. This can include the structure of your home. Also, dry air can make it harder for your body to fight off illness. The mucus in your nose requires moisture in the air to more easily capture bacteria and viruses before they enter your respiratory system. Keep yourself healthy and comfortable with a humidifier.
Heater Maintenance
This is a big one. Heater maintenance can be a life-changer here in Grand Rapids. For starters, it’s a service that helps keep your heating system in good shape through most of the winter. So, when the snow hits us hard and trucks are having trouble making it to homes through a blizzard, you’ll be happy knowing that your heating system won’t fail on you. Be proactive, schedule maintenance when schedules are open and temperatures are moderate. You’ll be thanking yourself down the line.
The team at GRmetro Heating and Cooling Inc has your back. Call us today.
