Fall Furnace Chores
With the onset of fall, homeowners gear up to make their house winter-ready. The essential thing that offers warmth and comfort from the harsh and frigid winter temperatures is a fully-functional furnace. It will be a nightmare to find a broken down or malfunctioning furnace on the first cold day of the season. Therefore, it is essential to be proactive and start early to ensure that the heating system is safe, energy-efficient, and in perfect order to keep the house warm throughout the cold season.
Here are some of the furnace chores every homeowner should undertake during fall to save money and have a warm and comfortable winter:
Replace the furnace filter
Dirty filters affect the efficiency of the HVAC system, damages its components, and shortens its life. Cleaning or replacing the air filters regularly (every 30 days) is the key to an effective and efficient furnace. New filters increase the flow of warm air, improve the air quality, and prolong the system’s life.
Check the thermostat
A working thermostat is essential for an efficient furnace. To ensure that the thermostat is in good condition, switch it from cooling to heating, and nudge temperature a few degrees higher than the room temperature. If the heat doesn’t come on from the vents in a few minutes, check the wires for loose connections, power supply, heat pump, and blower. If the system doesn’t work, call an HVAC contractor for repairs. Consider installing a programmable thermostat if you don’t own one.
Check and clean the heat exchanger
The heat exchanger should be regularly cleaned and inspected for leaks. Any crack in it can cause gas leak and carbon monoxide build-up in the home that can be dangerous and even fatal.
Chimney inspection
The furnace’s chimney should be inspected and cleaned off from obstructions like debris, bird’s nest, and carbon build-up.
Lubricate the moving parts
Oil all the moving parts, including the furnace blower motor annually. It will prevent unusual noises and ensure the optimal performance of all the key components.
Inspect the carbon monoxide detectors
Fall is the perfect time to check the carbon monoxide detectors for proper functioning, to ensure protection from the deadly gas.
Clean the vents and air ducts
Unclean vents and ducts obstruct heated airflow, and can also compromise with the air quality. Clean all the dirt and debris using a vacuum cleaner. Also, ensure that all the heating vents remain uncovered.
Clean the area around the furnace
Avoid using the area surrounding the furnace for storage. Storing boxes or other things around the HVAC unit not only blocks airflow and impacts the efficiency of the system but also can be a safety hazard.
Schedule a professional furnace inspection
To ensure that the furnace is fully prepared for winter, schedule an annual inspection by an experienced HVAC contractor. The professionals will thoroughly clean and inspect the system for issues. They will also perform the required repairs, and replace the worn-out parts to help the system operate effectively and efficiently to reduce energy use and cut the utility bills. If the furnace is more than fifteen years old, consider replacing it with a new and efficient unit.
Evenflow Home and Commercial Services offer residential and commercial electrical, plumbing, and HVAC services in San Antonio, Schertz, Converse, Floresville, Elmendorf, and surrounding cities. Call us at 210-941-3503 today!
