While winters may be generally mild in Alabama, furnaces still come in handy on those colder winter nights or during random cold spells. Because your furnace has been lying dormant all summer long, it’s a good idea to follow these 5 tips to get your furnace ready for winter.
Inspect Carbon Monoxide Detectors
There’s a reason why they call carbon monoxide the silent killer. You could have a leak and not know it, until it’s too late. That’s where carbon monoxide detectors come in handy – to alert you of possible leaks. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning in your home this winter, make sure your detectors are working properly.
Clean The Heat Exchanger
Speaking of carbon monoxide, did you know that the most common cause of carbon monoxide leaks is a failed or leaking heat exchanger in your furnace? Have a professional inspect your heat exchanger to make sure there’s no signs of cracks or leaks.
Change Air Filters
It’s recommended that you change your air filters every 1-3 months depending on the activity in your home. Changing them regularly can help keep particles such as dust, dirt, and pollen out of your HVAC system. Not only can this help prolong the life of your heating system, but it can also improve your indoor air quality.
Check Your Thermostat
Turn on your thermostat in order to test it. You want to make sure the thermostat shows that your home is heating up. If it doesn’t, there could be a problem with your thermostat that you need to address. It’s a good idea to check this before you really need the heat this winter. Once you have confirmed that your thermostat is in good, working order, set your thermostat to an optimal temperature. This will keep you and your family comfortable while also saving you money on energy bills. According to the Department of Energy, you can easily save energy in the winter by setting your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Schedule Furnace Maintenance
Last but not least, you should tune-up before you turn on this winter. Every year prior to turning on your heating system for the winter, you should have a licensed professional inspect it. This gives you peace of mind that your system is working safely and efficiently to keep you and your family comfortable. Not only that, but annual maintenance can also prolong the life of your system, save on energy costs, and catch small problems early on before they become much larger issues.
Schedule A Winter Furnace Maintenance With OnTime Service Today! We Are Here For All Your Home Service Needs in Birmingham, AL and Surrounding Areas
Whether you need electrical, HVAC, or plumbing service, the pros at OnTime Service are here for all your home service needs through every season. Your comfort and safety is our top priority. Contact us today at (205) 872-1944
or online by filling out our form here.
