Furnace Maintenance Checklist | Six Ways to Prep for Winter
What’s that? Winter? It may not seem like it, but winter will eventually make its way to Texas. According to an article in the Austin American Statesman, The Farmers’ Almanac predicts a mild, dry winter for the majority of Texas. The National Weather Service also forecasts warmer-than-usual temperatures through February for most of Texas. However, Texans know to plan for all contingencies of a Texas winter. Here is your furnace maintenance checklist for winter.
Furnace Maintenance Checklist:
Change Filters
We remind you of this regularly because changing your filters is the easiest way to help keep your HVAC running correctly. It has been dry and dusty this year, so keep an eye on them and change them at least once a month.
Run a Heat Test and Check your Pilot Light
You may not want to run a heat test just yet. But this will help ensure your heater is ready for cold weather. If you have a gas heater, test the ignitor switch and relight the pilot light if necessary.
Clean Around and Inside Your Furnace
Keep your heating system clear of dirt and debris by regularly sweeping or vacuuming the area around your system and inside the furnace as well.
Many furnaces are paired with heat pumps as components of your home’s HVAC system. It’s essential to ensure there’s enough airflow around these units. Avoid letting bushes, tall grass, or other plants grow on or around your outdoor units, as this can obstruct airflow in and out of the unit, ultimately decreasing its efficiency.
Check Your Weather Stripping
We recommend checking your weather stripping for any wear and tear it may have suffered. Sealing your home with weather stripping will maximize the airflow efficiency in your home. If your weather stripping allows air to enter your home, it is time to replace it.
Install or Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
If you use a natural gas furnace, it’s important to be aware of the serious risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. To ensure safety, install a wall-mounted CO detector in your home and consider placing additional detectors in bedrooms for extra protection. Having multiple CO detectors is only effective if the batteries are functioning properly. Make it a point to replace the batteries in your CO detectors every six months. Additionally, ensure that the outside vents for your furnace remain clear to allow exhaust gases to safely escape your home.
Schedule Your Routine Maintenance
Preventative and routine maintenance can boost your HVAC efficiency, save on energy costs, and help your heater run without issue this winter. Having your system on biannual maintenance will keep it running as efficiently as possible and extend the overall lifespan of your heater.
We know it may seem early to start your furnace maintenance checklist for winter when it barely feels like Fall, but there are things you can do now to prep for winter that will help you enjoy the holiday season with the AC on or the heater on. It’s hard to tell with Texas. If your system isn’t on a routine maintenance plan, call or contact us here to schedule your routine maintenance appointment.
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