As Thanksgiving draws near, you and your closest loved ones might be making plans for a COVID-friendly holiday. If that means entertaining at home, you can take steps to reduce the spread of airborne contaminants and maximize your heating system's efficiency to keep guests comfortable. The guide below includes three HVAC contractor-approved tips to prepare for the holidays.

How to Get Your HVAC System Ready for Thanksgiving

1. Remove Excess Dust

As you walk around your house, the dust that settled on your bookshelves, countertops, and floors will get kicked up into the air. Once it enters your HVAC system, it will circulate throughout your home, fill up your filter, and linger inside your ducts.

However, you can stop this chain of events by using a damp microfiber cloth to wipe your piano, coffee table, and other hard surfaces. Once the wet fibers trap the dust particles, rinse the cloth and start again. You can also vacuum up dust and pet dander from your flooring.

When your HVAC system isn't clogged, it will run better, which has the added bonus of lowering your utility bills.

2. Clean the Filter & Vents

To take care of the dust, dirt, and other allergens that have already made it into your HVAC system, swap out your disposable air filter a few days before the holidays. If you have a washable one, clean it. This way, there won’t be a web of lint blocking airflow and lowering your home’s indoor air quality.

You can use the hose and brush attachment on your vacuum to remove the dust from your air vents and floor registers so that clean air is pumped into your rooms.

3. Scale Back Your Settings

From preparing the turkey to the pumpkin pie, Thanksgiving involves spending a lot of time in the kitchen. As the oven, stovetop, and microwave run for hours, they’ll radiate heat, which will raise your home’s overall air temperature.

Therefore, if you’ve switched from cooling to heating, lower your thermostat when you start cooking. This way, your home won’t get too toasty and you’ll save money on your heating bill.

 

If you need help dealing with fall’s fluctuating temperatures, you can rely on Critical Air of Sugarland, TX. This HVAC contractor will happily perform a seasonal tuneup or administer emergency repairs before your guests arrive. From system inspection to filtration installations, their team will take care of all your heating and cooling needs. Learn more about their skills online. Call (281) 468-4250 to schedule an appointment with an HVAC contractor.