No one wants to think about winter coming, but the truth is, it could be only a couple of months before temperatures begin falling to the point where we need to kick on the heater. After not being in use all summer, your furnace may not be ready to face the cold without a little help. Here is what you need to do to make sure your furnace is in top-notch working order to keep you and your family warm this winter.
Consider Getting a Professional Inspection
It never hurts to have a pro come out and take a look at your heating unit-especially if you’ve not had it inspected in years. A professional HVAC inspector can tell you if your unit is running efficiently, ensure there are no carbon monoxide leaks, and fix any issues he may find during the inspection.
Change Filters
Furnace filters should be changed monthly and it’s likely you haven’t touched them over the summer. Take a look at your filter and, if it appears dirty, replace it with a new filter. Using a pleated filter is usually a better option than a flat filter as they catch more debris and keep your air quality cleaner.
Test It
Choose a day that’s not too hot and kick on the furnace. It’s likely you’ll notice an odor as dust and other debris are cleared out, so open some windows for good ventilation. Testing the furnace not only helps get rid of the smell, but it’s also a good way to spot problems when you still have time to get them fixed.
Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detector
Though it’s not technically part of your furnace, you should make sure your carbon monoxide detector is in good working order before you begin using the heater. Most detectors have a test button on them so you can easily test it. A good carbon monoxide detector is inexpensive and can save your family’s life—but only if it’s working properly.
If you find that you want to invest money into your heating system and experience lower utility bills and better heating quality, now is the time to consider upgrading to a high-efficiency or geothermal unit. If you’re interested in more information, please reach out to one of our knowledgeable team members.