Anyone who has ever woken up to a freezing home and an unresponsive thermostat knows how important proper furnace repair can be. Because the furnace is rarely used during the summer months, many homeowners forget to maintain this important appliance. Lack of use can cause corrosion and other problems, so preventative maintenance is always advised to prevent serious problems down the line. These tips will help ensure that your furnace is ready for winter.
1. Schedule a Fall Tune-up
Sometimes letting a professional take a look at your furnace is the best way to make sure everything is in working order. A maintenance expert can check for leaks or unhealthy gases, thoroughly clean the furnace, and make sure that the system is operating safely.
2. Change the Filter
A clogged filter will constrict the airflow through the furnace, causing it to work extra hard and reduce heat production. As a rule of thumb, filters should be changed every three to six months.
3. Make Sure the Vents are Unobstructed
Since air needs to flow easily through the vents, it’s important to make sure that they are clean and unobstructed. If air is not able to circulate freely, the system can become overworked and malfunction.
4. Check the Ducts
Increased power bills are often the result of leaking ducts. If a duct is leaking or has come apart, hot air will have a hard time reaching living areas, causing homeowners to turn the thermostat higher and higher in an attempt to stay warm. Make sure all connections are properly attached before turning on a heater for the first time.
5. Remove Flammable Objects
Take a look around the furnace and water heater to make sure the area is clear of flammable objects such as clothes, boxes, aerosol cans, paints, gasoline, and motorized yard tools.
If you have any questions about furnace repair, contact a professional at Bryant Heating and Cooling Systems today.
