A lot can transpire during the delightful warmer periods that can affect your furnace. The last thing you need during the coldest months of the year is problems with heat. The furnace needs to be operational and it needs to function in the most energy-efficient manner.
While there’s no better way to inspect your furnace than with a professional service, here are a few things a technician may advise you do yourself to keep that furnace in excellent working condition during the winter.
Change Your Filters
Change your filters at least four times a year. Take a look at least once a month to see if they need changing. If it looks in good condition, you can leave it be. But the filter’s appearance should give you an idea if it needs replacement. Clogged and dirty filters prevent a clean performance. You should have an inventory of filters at all times. You can get good prices on furnace filters during the warmer months.
Bleed the valves
If the home is equipped with hot water radiators, you need to bleed the valves on each. Open the valves on the radiators slightly. When water starts to appear, close them back up.
Keep the area clear
If your furnace needed servicing and you have to rearrange things to get to it, then you have too many items near it. Try to keep the area around the furnace clear, especially of items that have the potential to catch fire. Do not block air ducts and return vents.
Warmer months mean better prices
Take advantage of the warmer months and better prices. Have the gas company come fill up your furnace in the summer, rather than just before winter when both demand and prices are going to go up.
Detectors
The installation of radon and carbon monoxide detectors is invaluable to the environment. They help ensure everyone’s safety and should be positioned in areas of the home recommended by your furnace professional, as well as in the vicinity of the furnace itself.
Unplug the furnace
If your unit is electrical, make sure you unplug the furnace before you perform any sort of maintenance on it.
