With the crisp mornings and cooler evenings, we can feel the changing seasons from summer to fall in the air. That also means that winter is lurking in the background, ready to pounce it’s freezing cold temperatures upon us, and sometimes it catches us off guard and unprepared.
There’s nothing more discouraging than turning on your furnace to take the chill out of the air, only to realize you forgot to take the necessary steps to ensure it was prepared for the task at hand.
Here are 5 things you can do to be prepared before the temperatures dip down low this fall and winter.
Replace Your Filters
This seems so obvious, but it’s easily forgotten about. By replacing your disposable filters every 1-3 months you can help keep dirt and debris out of your system and keep your furnace running more efficiently. Try keeping a stock of filters on hand so you’re always prepared to change them when it’s time.
Check Your Ductwork
Taking a look at your ductwork prior to turning on your furnace is an important step to ensuring everything is ready for the cold season. Duct leaks are not uncommon and will have a negative effect on the efficiency of your system and lead to higher heat bills. Calling a professional like Ed Rike Plumbing to help complete this task will give you peace of mind that the job is done well.
Make Sure Your Air Vents Are Clean
Take time to find each air vent in your home and make sure it is free from clutter and debris. Keep furniture and rugs away from the vents so that airflow is not restricted. Even dust can affect your system and can contribute to poor air quality. Take a wet cloth and clean each vent as thoroughly as possible.
Schedule Preventative Maintenance
Keeping your system properly maintained by scheduling regular maintenance checks is important. We have a professional team that can handle your furnace maintenance on a regular basis and will keep your system working smoothly all winter long.
Avoid Fire Hazards
It’s easy to use the area around your furnace as a storage space, but it’s really not a good idea. Remove any items that are sitting close to your unit so as to allow for proper air flow and avoid any fire hazards.
Don’t Let Winter Catch You Off Guard
If you’re in a Northern or Midwest state, you know winter is coming. Don’t let it find you scrambling to get your furnace ready, or learning after the fact that your ductwork is leaking and needs repair. Blankets and space heaters aren’t going to keep your house warm enough, so contact us today and get ahead of the game. Having a professional give your system a tune-up and fire it on for the first time of the season will give you the peace of mind that you’re ready for the cold winds to blow.
