Preparing Your Furnace for the Winter Season
Before the cold sets in this winter, make sure your furnace is prepared. You should never put off this job until the last minute. To operate safely and efficiently, a furnace needs to be cleaned and maintained ahead of time. Here is what to do.
Change the Air Filter
Your furnace’s air filter protects the furnace components from debris and keeps air pollutants from entering your home through ductwork. Change the filter at the beginning of the season and change it regularly every month.
If you have been using a cheap fiberglass mesh filter, consider upgrading to a pleated filter. These trap more dust and are better for the furnace and your indoor air. Your HVAC service technician can tell you which kinds are best for your furnace.
Check All Vents, Registers and Ductwork
Vents and registers should be open and free of debris so that air can move freely.
Ductwork can develop gaps and cracks over time and this can cost you money as heated air slips out. Leaking ducts also let unfiltered air in, which can compromise your indoor air quality. The time to make ductwork repairs is, preferably, before turning on the heat. Use metallic tape for the best, long lasting results.
Clean Up Around the Furnace
Remove all obstacles, boxes and other items from near the furnace. Furnaces should be easy to access and all flammable materials should be stored far away. Sweep the floors around the unit and wipe dust off all external components.
Cleanliness helps prevent dust from entering the furnace and causing problems.
Schedule a Service Check
Although there are many things you can do as a homeowner to get your furnace ready, it is important to have your furnace checked and cleaned each fall by a licensed HVAC contractor.
During the visit, the contractor will perform the following tasks, at minimum:
• Check the Belts and Motor
• Clean the Burners
• Check the Flue
• Clean the Blower Assembly
• Inspection of the Heat Exchanger and other Components
Preparing your furnace helps bring peace of mind when the cold sets in and helps ensure it will work when you need it the most. A clean and well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently and has a longer lifespan as well.
This more than offsets any initial cost for cleaning, maintenance and replacing air filters.
Ensure that your furnace is in working order before the winter frost! Call Superior Heating Air Conditioning & Electric at (763) 422-1721 now to winterize your Anoka, MN home early.