Your home is often the backdrop to holiday fun, game nights, festive dinners, and gatherings this time of year. Make sure problems with your home’s systems don’t spoil the festivities!
Here are a few holiday home tips from Canady’s Heating, Air & Plumbing:
Ho Ho Home HVAC Tips for the Holiday Season
Homeowners in the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry see the ups and downs of humid summers and chilly winters. Your heating and cooling systems are critical to comfort, especially in colder months or hot summer days.
Keep these systems running efficiently by completing the following:
- Schedule pre-season maintenance: Before the holidays hit, have a professional inspect your heating and air conditioning units. They’ll check for leaks, clean filters, and ensure everything is functioning properly.
- Set thermostats wisely: Consider installing a programmable thermostat. Set it to a comfortable temperature when you’re there and energy-saving settings when you’re away. Smart thermostats can also be controlled remotely.
- Give your system a dry run: Before the chilly weather rolls in and stays, check that your heating system is ready for the holiday. Set your thermostat a few degrees higher than room temperature, and make sure the heating system responds and hits the mark. If it doesn’t, schedule a repair with a technician who can get to the root of the issue.
- Clean your vents: Dust can make your heating system inefficient and contribute to poor air quality. You’re likely deep-cleaning your home for holiday guests, so make sure vents are part of your checklist.
- Change air filters: If your filters are clogged from summer and fall dust, that means they’re doing their job! Start the holidays with fresh filters to collect the new season of debris.
Piping Hot Tips to Keep Your Pipes Flowing Smoothly for the Holiday Season
Holiday gatherings often mean more guests using the bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, which can put added strain on your plumbing system.
Prevent plumbing issues and ensure everything is functioning properly by following these tips:
- Inspect for leaks: Before the holiday rush begins, check for any visible leaks under sinks, around toilets, and near plumbing appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. Small leaks can turn into bigger issues if left unattended, especially with more people in the house.
- Avoid drain clogs: With extra cooking and cleaning, your kitchen sink can become a hotspot for clogs, especially with grease, oils, and food scraps. Be mindful of what you’re putting down the drain, consider using a drain strainer to catch debris, and schedule drain cleaning if you need it. If you have a garbage disposal, make sure it’s in good working order and keep fats, oils, and grease out of your drain.
- Protect bathroom drains: Extra guests mean more use of the toilets and showers. To avoid clogs, don’t flush anything other than toilet paper, and remind your guests not to do the same. Consider installing a drain cover in your showers to catch hair and prevent blockages.
- Check water pressure: If you notice any drops in water pressure, it could be a sign of a hidden issue in your plumbing. Low pressure during high-demand moments, like when multiple people are using the bathroom or kitchen at the same time, may signal a problem. Have a plumber check your water supply pipes and fix any issues before you’re scrambling with houseguests in town.
- Prevent frozen pipes: Frozen pipes won’t just stop your holiday fun; they might even burst your holiday bubble! Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or garages. If you’re going to be away from home during the holidays, make sure to leave your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent freezing.
- Check your water heater: With extra showers and guests using hot water, ensure your water heater is in good shape. Test the temperature settings. Ideally, 120 degrees Fahrenheit is enough for comfort and energy efficiency. You should also flush the tank to remove sediment buildup. If your water heater is old or frequently runs out of hot water, it might be time to consider a replacement before the holiday rush.
Merry & Bright Electrical Tips for the Holiday Season
The holidays can put extra demand on your home’s electrical system. Here’s how to keep your home bright safely:
- Switch to LED holiday lights: LED lights use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last longer, too! Making the swap means you won’t have to replace them so soon.
- Choose the right extension cords: Not all extension cords are the same. Use outdoor-rated cords for outside decorations, and choose the right cord strength — light-duty cords work well for holiday lights, but heavier-duty ones are better for powering larger equipment.
Schedule Home Services with Canady’s
With some much jolly happening around the holidays, the last thing you want to think about is your home’s plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems. Getting ready for the holidays isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns; it’s about ensuring that you can enjoy the season without worrying about unexpected home issues.
Take time to inspect and maintain these essential systems now and you’ll be well-prepared to host family and friends in comfort and safety. Our professionals at Canady’s Heating, Air & Plumbing stand ready to help you prepare your HVAC and plumbing for the holidays or come to your aid this holiday if they break down.
With over 36 years of experience helping homeowners in the Savannah and Beaufort communities, we’re your dedicated and dependable home professionals.
Call Canady’s now or book HVAC or plumbing services online!