The winter season is quickly approaching, which means cold weather. If you want to keep warm you’ll need to prepare your furnace. Check out how here!
The furnace your home is often the first thing you forget about when summer rolls around. After all, it’s probably hidden away in a cluttered storage room.
As winter approaches, though, you need to think about how to best take care of your furnace.
There are a few guidelines to follow to keep your house safe and warm during the winter.
The most important thing is to follow them before winter arrives. It will also save you money on your electric and heating bills.
1. Cleaning Your Furnace
Checking your furnace should be a priority as summer ends and fall fills the air.
You don’t want to wait until the last minute, only to find out something is wrong.
Make sure the room where your furnace sits is clear of clutter and debris, especially if you have a pilot light. This way, you can easily access the furnace at any time.
Clean the furnace itself and make sure it’s free of dust and cobwebs. It’s a good idea to vacuum the outside of the furnace and the surrounding areas to help keep the filter clean.
2. Change the Air Filters
You should change your air filters every three months, or as recommended by the furnace or air filters.
It’s probably safe to say that you can’t remember when you last changed the air filter.
Cardboard air filters can’t be re-used, so they need to be replaced when they’re dirty. Mesh metal filters can be cleaned with a hose and air-dried.
Dirty filters will clog your furnace system, causing the heat to disperse unevenly. This results in longer times to heat your home and an expensive energy bill.
3. Clean Furnace Ducts and Vents
Here are a few quick tips to ensure your home is ready for whatever Mother Nature brings this winter.
The ducts and vents are what actually blow the heat into your home. You want to make sure they’re clean of dust and debris.
There should be no obstructions near the vents, and you should inspect the ducts for any obstructions.
Ensuring the vents and ducts are clean will help you rest easy this winter. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your furnace system is running properly.
4. Check the Furnace Fan Belt
You can easily check the fan belt to ensure there are no signs of wear.
You should also check the tension of the fan belt. If it’s loose, the heater will take more time to heat your home.
You need to check the belt for cracks or frayed areas. If you find any, it’s wise to replace the belt before the first use for winter. The belt may also need to be tightened to achieve the right amount of tension.
5. Lubricate the Bearings
If your furnace is older, it may have other moving parts that require bearings. These bearings need to be oiled as part of regular maintenance so they don’t wear out.
If you don’t check the bearings for lubrication, your heater will not run as efficiently and it could lead to costly repairs.
Preparing Your Home Heating System For Winter
What’s the takeaway from all this?
Don’t neglect your furnace. It’s the main source or maybe even the only source of heat for your home.
Always change your filters according to the guidelines on your heater. A clean filter can mean the difference between damage and a well-running furnace. It will also save you money on your energy bills.
If you want to ensure your heating system is clean and ready for winter, contact us for reliable, friendly service.
