Cold Factor explains the top heating tips to stay warm. Contact Cold Factor if you need furnace services such as replacements or repairs.
The cold weather is officially here, and that means it’s time to start thinking about ways to stay warm. If your heating system can’t keep up with the chill, you’re going to have a tough time staying comfortable this winter.
That’s why it’s important to follow these top heating tips.
In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about staying warm this winter. We’ll cover home heating maintenance, how to stay warm while you book a repair appointment, common heating system repairs, financing, and more!
Read on for our guide to staying warm during the winter.
Is Your Heater Broken?
If your heater is broken, you should get it repaired as soon as possible. Maybe you have some budget problems, or perhaps you’re in a hard-to-reach location, that means there will be delays in a repair professional visiting to fix it.
In the meantime, there are a few simple things you can do to stay warm while it’s repaired. Staying warm is essential for your health.
- Take hot baths.
- Bundle up. Wear warm clothes, a heavy coat, and thick socks.
- Use an electric blanket.
- Close the doors. Shut all of the doors in your home to keep the heat inside.
- Use a hot water bottle.
- Use space heaters. If you need extra heating power, use space heaters to help keep your home warm. They are electrical plug-in heaters available from electrical goods retailers.
- Drink hot tea/soup or eat stew.
We know how hard it can be for older people and people on low incomes, such as hard-working single parents, to keep their homes warm in winter if their heater breaks. If you have the budget to book maintenance and repairs, go ahead and skip the next section of this article.
If your income is low, you’re concerned you can’t afford repairs, and you’re worried about being cold this winter, keep reading.
The Texas Weatherization Assistance Program
What is The Texas Weatherization Assistance Program?
The Texas Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federally funded program that helps low-income people make their homes more energy-efficient.
It can help you save money on your heating and cooling bills, improve the comfort of your home, and increase the safety of your family.
What services does The Texas WAP offer?
The Texas WAP offers the following services:
- Home Energy Audits
- Insulation
- Air Sealing
- Window Replacement
- HVAC Maintenance and Repair
Who is eligible for The Texas WAP?
You may be eligible for The Texas WAP if you meet the following criteria:
- You are a U.S. citizen or a qualified alien.
- Your income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
- Your home is your primary residence.
- You have not received weatherization assistance in the past 12 months.
How do I apply for The Texas WAP?
You can apply for The Texas WAP by filling out an application form. You can get an application form from your local community action agency, or you can download it from the Department of Housing and Community Affairs website.
Once you have filled out the application, return it to your local community action agency.
If you have any questions about the application process, you can call the Department of Housing and Community Affairs helpline at (800) 525-0657.
If your income is low and you’re having problems heating your home this winter, don’t worry. There are programs available to help you stay warm and comfortable. The Texas Weatherization Assistance Program is one of these programs, and it can help you save money on your heating bills.
If you’re not sure if you’re eligible for The Texas WAP or you have any questions about the application process, don’t hesitate to call the Department of Housing and Community Affairs helpline at (800) 525-0657.
Stay warm!
Heating System Maintenance and Heating Tips
One of the best ways to keep warm during the winter is to make sure your heating system is properly maintained. This includes checking and cleaning your filters, as well as scheduling regular tune-ups.
When it comes to heating, homeowners who use their air conditioning all year and turn on the heat occasionally are more likely to overlook concerns.
Unfortunately, a faulty heater might be hazardous and expensive to repair or replace.
You can avoid many of the common pitfalls associated with heaters and heating systems by performing some simple maintenance tasks. After all, it’s always easier to maintain something than it is to repair or replace it.
You could do one (or all) of the following checks and tasks to prepare your HVAC system for winter:
- Have your heating system serviced by a qualified technician.
- Change the air filters in your heating unit.
- Inspect all ductwork for leaks and seal any that are found.
- Check to make sure nothing is blocking or covering your outdoor heating unit.
- Clean the area around your heating unit.
- Inspect the wiring on your heating unit.
- Make sure your thermostat is working properly.
In this article, let’s explore each of these tasks in more detail.
If you’re not comfortable performing any of these tasks, it’s best to leave them to a professional. Heating system maintenance can be tricky, and if it’s not done correctly, you could end up doing more harm than good.
Preparing For The Winter Chill
Prepare your heater or furnace for the winter. Even if you don’t live in an area that experiences snowfall during the winter, it’s essential to maintain your heating system so that it’s in good condition when you need it most.
The best time of year to prepare your heating system is during the fall before the cold weather hits. That’s why we’ve put together this checklist for HVAC maintenance to help you get your home ready for winter.
1. Have Your Heating System Serviced by a Qualified Technician
One of the most important things you can do to prepare your heating system for winter is to have it serviced by a qualified technician. A professional will be able to inspect your heating unit and identify any potential problems. They can also help keep your heating system in good condition and ensure that it’s running properly.
It’s also important to remember that not all technicians are created equal. Make sure you choose a technician who is licensed and insured (like us here at Cold Factor) and has experience working on heating systems.
You should also have the technician check the following:
- The heating unit
- The ductwork
- The filters
- The thermostat
Regular service and maintenance can help prevent costly repairs down the road.
If you’re not sure when your heating system was last serviced or if it’s been a while since you’ve had it inspected, give us a call. We can help you schedule an appointment with one of our qualified technicians.
2. Change The Air Filters in Your Heating Unit
One of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain your heating system is to change the air filters regularly. Dirty filters can impede airflow and cause your heating unit to work harder than it needs to, which can lead to increased energy costs and decreased efficiency.
Most heating units have a filter that needs to be changed every month, but some filters may need to be replaced more often (especially if you have pets).
Replacing the air filter is a quick and easy task that can be done by most homeowners. All you need is a screwdriver or wrench to remove the old filter and replace it with a new one.
You can buy replacement filters at most hardware stores or home improvement centers.
If you’re not sure which type of filter your heating unit requires, consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer.
It’s important to note that some filters are reusable and can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or brush. If you choose to use a reusable filter, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and care.
3. Inspect All Ductwork for Leaks and Seal Any That Are Found
Leaky ducts can cause your heating unit to work harder than it should, which can lead to increased energy costs and decreased efficiency.
The best way to prevent leaks is to inspect all of the ductwork in your home and seal any that are found. You can do this yourself using duct tape and insulation, or you can hire a professional to do it for you.
It’s important to remember that not all leaks are visible. To ensure that your ducts are properly sealed, use a smoke bomb or incense stick to detect any air leakage.
If you find any leaks in your ductwork, seal them immediately using duct tape and insulation. You can also use a heating pad to help keep the area warm until you’re able to fix the leak.
Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent costly repairs down the road.
If you’re not sure how to inspect your ducts for leaks or how to seal them properly, give us a call. We can help you get the job done right.
4. Inspect the Heating Unit for Damage
It’s important to inspect the heating unit for damage regularly, especially during winter. Damaged heating units can be dangerous and may not function properly.
If you find any damage, have it repaired or replaced immediately. It’s also a good idea to keep a spare heating unit on hand in case of emergencies.
You can inspect the heating unit yourself, or you can hire a professional to do it for you.
Key signs the unit is damaged include:
- Leaks or moisture around the unit.
- Strange noises are coming from the unit.
- Excessive heating or cooling.
If you notice any of these signs, have the heating unit inspected immediately.
It’s also a good idea to keep a record of all repairs and maintenance that is performed on the heating unit. This will help you when it’s time to have the unit serviced or replaced.
5. Keep the Area Around the Heating Unit Clear
One of the best ways to ensure that your heating unit functions properly is to keep the area around it clear.
Make sure there are no obstructions (furniture, rugs, etc.) that could impede airflow and cause the unit to work harder than it should.
Also, make sure there is plenty of clearance around the unit so that it can dissipate heat properly.
If you have any questions about how much space your heating unit requires, consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer.
It’s also a good idea to keep a close eye on pets and children near the heating unit. They should be kept at least three feet away from the unit to avoid injuries.
6. Keep the Heating Unit Clean
One of the best ways to ensure that your heating unit functions properly is to keep it clean.
Dust and dirt can build up on the heating unit over time, which can cause it to work harder than it should.
The best way to clean the heating unit is with a vacuum cleaner or a brush. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and care.
It’s also a good idea to clean the filters regularly. If the filters are dirty, they can impede airflow and cause the heating unit to work harder than it should.
If you have any questions about how to clean your heating unit or filters, consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer.
7. Set the Thermostat to the Right Temperature
One of the best ways to ensure that your heating unit functions properly is to set the thermostat to the right temperature.
The recommended temperature for most homes is 68 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you may need to adjust it depending on your needs and preferences.
If you’re not sure what the right temperature is for your home, consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer.
It’s also a good idea to keep a close eye on the thermostat and make sure it’s not set too high or too low.
Common Heater System Repairs
The most common heater system repairs include:
- Replacing heating elements.
- Repairing thermostats.
- Cleaning or replacing filters.
- Sealing ducts and joints.
Why are these repairs so common? Because heating systems are often used heavily during the winter months, they can get a little exhausted. Wouldn’t you?
If you’re having any problems with your heating system, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact a professional to have the system repaired before it breaks down completely.
The typical cost of heater repair in the USA is around $200, but it varies depending on the size of the unit and the severity of the problem. Our average charges to customers are usually much lower than that.
Choose a Team In Texas You Can Trust
Here at Cold Factor, we know heating and air conditioning. We’ve been keeping Texans warm for years, and we’re not about to stop now.
We also offer 24/24 emergency heating service, so you can rest assured that we’ll be there when you need us.
If you need heating repair, installation, or maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll send a team out to your home right away to take care of the problem.
If your heating unit is on its last legs, it might be time to consider a replacement. Here are a few factors to keep in mind when choosing a new heating system. Here are a few of our recommendations:
- Consider your budget. Heating systems can vary in price, so be sure to choose one that fits your budget.
- Think about the size of your home. A heating unit that’s too small won’t be able to keep up with the demands of a large home, and vice versa.
- Consider your lifestyle. If you have a large family or like to entertain, you’ll need a heating unit that can handle a lot of people.
- Think about the climate in your area. If you live in an area with cold winters, you’ll need a heating unit that can handle the cold weather.
- Brands matter. Not all heating units are created equal. Be sure to choose a brand that you can trust.
At Cold Factor, we only recommend the best heating units on the market. We’ve been in the business for years, and we know what it takes to keep Texans warm during the winter months.
We also offer financing options, so you can get the heating unit you need when you need it.
Financing For Heater Repairs
We provide many flexible financing alternatives so that our clients may benefit from our excellent customer service and HVAC solutions while staying within their budget and getting the repairs they need when they need them.
Our staff is certain that no one should have to wait months or years for a home heater repair or air conditioner replacement, especially during the summer or winter.
Do you want to automate your HVAC system with smart HVAC services? Our smart home heating and AC services are also available on our finance program.
Do you need new ductwork put in? Whatever you want, we make the purchasing process easier by offering unique financing alternatives.
We also understand that maintenance is something you should have very regularly, and we have customers who have used us for years! So, we decided to offer something special to our customers.
Save Money With A Cold Factor Maintenance Plan
A heating system is a big investment, and it’s important to protect that investment by having regular maintenance. That’s why we offer our customers a Cold Factor Maintenance Plan.
We customize the plan for our customers, as homes of different sizes have a different number of HVAC systems.
Here’s an example plan:
- One annual visit from one of our qualified technicians.
- Priority service if you need repairs.
- Discounts on parts and labor.
In addition to customizing plans for our customers, we also currently offer three special residential service plans:
- $179 for 1 system and two visits per year.
- $239 for 2 systems and two visits per year.
- $329 for 3 systems and two visits per year.
A Cold Factor Maintenance Plan is a great way to protect your heating system and save money on repairs. Contact us today to learn more about our maintenance plans and financing options.
Choose An Amazing Team
Maybe you’re looking for the right team to repair, maintain, or replace your heating system before winter. If so, we think it’s essential you choose a team you trust.
Customers in Texas can choose us, so their choice is easy! We’re a pretty great team to have by your side. We’ve got all your heating needs covered.
However, customers from outside Texas (who can’t access our services because they live too far away) still want to find a team as great as ours! If you’re wondering what you should look for in your HVAC company and what questions you should ask to make sure they’re as good as we are. Here are some questions to ask…
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you have a license, and are you insured? This is important because it means that if something happens while they’re working on your heating unit, both you and the company are protected.
- Are your technicians qualified and experienced?
- Do you have a satisfaction guarantee or warranty on your services?
- Can I see reviews from previous customers?
If the company you’re considering can answer all of these questions positively, then they’re probably a good choice for heating repairs, maintenance, or replacement.
Final Thoughts
It’s the cold season, and we wanted to make sure our customers are taken care of with this heating tips guide. That’s why we’re offering unique financing alternatives, a Cold Factor Maintenance Plan, and amazing customer service.
If you’re in need of heating repairs, maintenance, or replacement, don’t hesitate to contact us! We’ll take care of you. It’s what we do best.
