The winter’s almost upon us, and there’s plenty to look forward to, including snow fights, sweets and treats, and, of course, the holidays. It all sounds very nice and cheery until you remember the biting chill. Then, it occurs to you that your heating system has to be in prime condition in readiness for the winter!
You need an efficient heating system by the time winter rears its freezing head to keep you comfortable indoors and to keep utility bills at manageable levels. Here’s what to do to get your heater ready for the winter:
Replace the filter
The barest minimum you can do to keep your heater running efficiently all winter is to replace the filter. This improves your home’s overall air quality and keeps you from making expensive repairs further down the line.
Check the control valve
Don’t forget to check that the control valve is turned on to ensure the gas produces sufficient heat. Sometimes, an inefficient heating system is down to the control valve, so don’t forget to double-check this crucial element.
Check the vents
If dirt clogs the vent pipes, your heating system will not work efficiently. Plus, health hazards are involved- it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. So, ensure that the vents are free of obstruction ahead of the winter to provide a safe and comfortable space throughout the winter.
Carry out preventive maintenance
This is where you should take advantage of a professional service to check out your heating system. After cleaning the visible parts like the vents, blower, and burner compartments, you should contact a professional for further checks and preventive maintenance tune-ups.
Seal leaky ducts
Inspect the heater to identify leaky ducts. If you find any, remedy it with a mastic sealant or metal tape. If you use regular duct tape, you’ll be right back where you started, as it won’t last very long.
Upgrade your thermostat
A regular thermostat will help you adjust the temperature of the room. However, they can quickly make you rack up energy bills, as they aren’t 100% efficient. With smart, programmable thermostats, you avoid huge bills and can even set the temperature to regulate during the day when it’s warmer automatically.
Inspect and replace damaged parts
You can also conduct a visual inspection, looking for signs of wear, tear, and corrosion. The burner assembly, heat exchanger, fan and blower assembly, and electrical components are parts you can inspect visibly for signs of damage. However, if you’re not comfortable getting your hands dirty, you can contact a professional to help you carry out a more thorough inspection.
Schedule a heater maintenance ahead of winter
If your heater breaks down in the middle of the winter, your warm, comfortable home can quickly become a harsh, cold zone for you and everyone in the house.
So, spare some time to inform a professional to inspect the heater and ensure all the parts work correctly. Reach out to us today