Top 5 Tips to Prepare Your HVAC System for Christmas Gatherings

The holiday season is a time for joy and cozy gatherings with friends and family. But when guests arrive as the temperatures drop, is your HVAC system ready to deliver? Your HVAC should play a silent, but reliable, behind-the-scenes addition to your Christmas festivities. The team at Martel Plumbing & Heating is here to help keep your heating system in top working condition for the holiday season. We also wanted to share our five top tips to prepare your HVAC system for the season so you can focus on creating memories without worrying about unexpected breakdowns.

1. Schedule a Pre-Holiday Maintenance Check

Before your holiday guests arrive, make sure your HVAC system is ready to meet the demand. Beyond testing to see if your system comes on and responds to your thermostat properly, you need a professional maintenance check to identify if there are any issues and if your system can keep up and run efficiently throughout the season.

When you schedule HVAC maintenance in Lincoln, RI, one of our technicians will inspect your system, clean up your components, and replace filters if necessary to get them functioning correctly. We’ll help you prevent uncomfortable surprises while improving your energy efficiency. You’ll stay warmer, enjoy more peace of mind, and save money on energy bills this winter. Make sure to schedule your service as early as possible to avoid the rush of last-minute maintenance appointments!

2. Check and Replace Air Filters

Dirty or clogged air filters can dramatically reduce your HVAC system’s efficiency and make it harder to keep your home warm and comfortable. Dirty filters ultimately slow down your system and lead to uneven heating while increasing your energy bills, neither of which are welcome during the Christmas season. 

We recommend replacing your air filters every 1 to 3 months to keep your airflow working optimally while improving indoor air quality. It’s especially important during social gatherings when more people are coming in and out of your house and can stir up the dust and allergens.

If you have pets or a lot of holiday decorations that shed glitter or other particles, you may need a filter replacement sooner than later. It’s also a good idea to check your filters frequently if you have an older heating system that may need more attention and care.

3. Adjust the Thermostat Strategically

When your house is full of people, your space will probably feel warmer from the added body heat. Try adjusting the thermostat to a slightly lower setting during gatherings to keep your home comfortable while saving energy. If you usually set your thermostat to 72°F, try lowering it to 68°F during the party. You’ll prevent your home from becoming too warm while reducing the strain on your HVAC system.

The holiday season is also a good time to consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat if you don’t already have one. They allow you to set the schedule that works best for you while making temperature adjustments remotely for more control over energy usage. 

4. Make Sure Your Home Has Proper Ventilation and Airflow

Christmas gatherings typically involve extensive cooking and baking, which leads to an increase in heat and odors in your home. When you combine the activity from your oven with a full house, your indoor air quality can feel stuffy and stale. Keep things more comfortable for your guests by making sure your HVAC vents are free from furniture and decorations. Or consider turning to your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans to help circulate the air.

Before your friends and family arrive, check for any cold or uneven spots in your home. Drafty rooms could be an indication that your HVAC system or ductwork isn’t working properly. You can move away furniture and blockages, but otherwise, you need HVAC service in Lincoln, RI, to diagnose what’s going on and get your heater back on track. 

5. Have a Backup Plan

Preparing your HVAC system reduces the risk of heat problems, but it’s always smart to have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. Look over your system’s manual and keep our contact information handy. Keep some extra blankets on hand or have a backup plan, like your fireplace, in case your HVAC goes down. 

The team at Martel Plumbing also offers emergency heating services to get your home warm and toasty again in no time. If you experience a problem during your Christmas celebration, give us a call! We’ll come out as soon as possible to restore your comfort and save your party. 

Celebrate a Warm, Cozy Season with HVAC Service from Martel Plumbing & Heating

To keep you and your guests warm during the holidays, your HVAC system requires proper care and maintenance. Call the team at Martel Plumbing & Heating for HVAC service in Lincoln, RI, including maintenance, repairs, new installations, and more. We’re here to help you enjoy a warm, stress-free Christmas with your loved ones. Schedule your appointment today!