Keep Your Home Cozy And Efficient During Colder Weather
As the temperatures drop, your furnace becomes the backbone of your home’s comfort. But before you switch on the heat for the season, it’s essential to ensure your system is in top shape. Neglecting furnace maintenance can lead to higher energy bills, unexpected breakdowns and even safety concerns.
By taking a few proactive steps, you can avoid last-minute issues and make sure your home stays warm and energy-efficient all season long. Our team at Mission Air is sharing what you need to do before turning on the heater in your house this winter.
1. Change Or Clean Your Furnace Filter
One of the simplest yet most crucial steps in getting your heating system ready for winter is replacing or cleaning your furnace filter. A clogged or dirty filter reduces airflow, forcing your system to work harder and increasing your energy consumption.
Disposable filters should be replaced every one to three months, especially before the heating season, while reusable filters need to be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A fresh filter improves indoor air quality and helps your heater run efficiently, making it an essential part of seasonal maintenance.
2. Test Your Thermostat
A properly functioning thermostat is key to keeping your home at a comfortable temperature while avoiding unnecessary energy waste. Switch your thermostat to heating mode and set it a few degrees higher than the current room temperature. If the unit doesn’t turn on, check the batteries or power source.
A programmable or smart thermostat can be a worthwhile investment, allowing you to automate temperature settings and reduce energy use when the home is empty.
3. Watch For Strange Smells Or Noises
When you turn on your heater for the first time in months, it’s common to notice a faint burning smell. This is usually just dust burning off after a long period of inactivity. However, other odors or noises may indicate a problem.
A musty smell could signal mold or mildew inside your ductwork, while a rotten egg smell may point to a gas leak, requiring immediate professional attention. If you hear loud banging, screeching or rattling sounds when your furnace runs, loose or damaged components could be to blame. These signs should not be ignored. They may indicate mechanical failure or require urgent heater repairs.
4. Ensure Proper Ventilation And Safety Checks
Furnaces need adequate ventilation to operate safely. Before the cold season sets in, clear any clutter from around your unit to prevent overheating. It’s also important to test your carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working properly, as gas furnaces produce carbon monoxide, which can be dangerous if leaks occur.
Additionally, check for any signs of rust, cracks or debris buildup around the unit, as these could indicate ventilation issues that need professional inspection.
5. Check The Pilot Light And Ignition System
For gas furnaces, the pilot light should burn a steady blue flame. If the flame flickers or appears orange or yellow, there may be a ventilation issue or an improper gas-to-air ratio. If your unit uses an electronic ignition system, ensure it engages properly when you adjust the thermostat.
If your system doesn’t ignite, the sensor may need to be cleaned or replaced. A technician can diagnose and fix ignition issues to prevent unexpected heating failures when you need your system most.
6. Schedule a Professional Furnace Tune-Up
DIY maintenance is important, but scheduling a professional furnace inspection ensures all internal components are running efficiently. A technician will inspect and clean key components, lubricate moving parts and check for any worn-out or failing parts that could lead to breakdowns.
They’ll also ensure the heat exchanger is intact and safe, preventing carbon monoxide leaks. Routine tune-ups improve efficiency, extend the lifespan of your system and help avoid expensive emergency repairs when winter is in full force.
Stay Warm And Comfortable All Winter Long
Taking the time to prepare your heating system for winter means fewer surprises and better efficiency. By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a warm and worry-free season while keeping energy costs in check.
If you need a professional heater tune-up or repairs, Mission Air is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your pre-winter HVAC maintenance!
