Winter is just around the corner, and many meteorologists are predicting that it’s going to be bad. For many people, that means relying on a furnace to heat their homes. With furnace repairs so costly, however, homeowners need to take steps to care for their equipment before winter comes. Make sure you complete these items before the freeze of the season.
- Replace your air filters. Ideally, do this once a month. At the very least, make sure you replace them at the start of each season. Dirty air filters block the flow of air into your unit, forcing the unit to work harder to draw in air.
- Clean your vent covers and ducts. You can use a screwdriver to take off the cover plates and wipe them with a wet paper towel. Use your vacuum hose to remove as dust and dirt as possible from the vents.
- Inspect your unit. To do this, turn off the power to your furnace at the circuit breaker. Then, look at your system and inspect it for cracks or other damage. If necessary, use a screwdriver to take off the cover of the air handler and look at the belts. If you see damage, call a professional to have the repair done. Once you’re done with the inside, go up on the roof and look at your vents and flue. It’s common for debris and other materials to get lodged in these areas. Remove anything you see before turning the power back on to your system.
- Consider a new thermostat. It might be a good time to invest in a programmable thermostat. These thermostats can automatically turn down the heat while you’re away during the day and while you sleep at night. It has been estimated that a programmable thermostat can save a homeowner up to 75% off a furnace’s operating costs.
Looking for professional heating and cooling contractors? Contact Lucky Air Inc today. From various cooling services and heating services, we are a full-service HVAC company with a solution for all of your furnace and ac needs