It’s important to keep your residential heating system maintained in order to ensure it is working efficiently and safely. With the winter months quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to make sure that your heating system is in top shape.
From regular maintenance to checking your CO detectors and air filters, there are certain things you can do to help you keep your home comfortable and safe throughout the winter. Below are 4 such things explained in detail.
1. Check the Air Filter Monthly
One of the most important steps in maintaining your residential heating system is to check the air filter every month. Your air filter helps trap dust and dirt particles from entering the furnace and should be changed or cleaned regularly.
To check the filter, you can open up the furnace compartment door and take a look inside. If the filter appears dirty, it should be replaced. Some filters are disposable, while others can be washed with soap and water. When replacing a filter, make sure to use one that is designed for your particular furnace.
2. Keep the Area Around the Furnace Clear
It’s important to keep the area around your furnace clear. This is because a clogged or blocked area can cause the system to work harder and use more energy than necessary, leading to higher energy bills and potentially damaging your heating system.
To ensure that your furnace is running optimally, make sure that all combustible material is kept at least three feet away from the furnace, including furniture, carpets, curtains, and other materials. If you have a ventilation system near the furnace, ensure it is also clear of obstructions.
Additionally, regular vacuuming of the area surrounding the furnaces can help keep debris away from your heating system and keep it running smoothly.
3. Inspect and Clean the Chimney
Having your chimney inspected and cleaned annually is essential for maintaining your residential heating system. As part of the inspection process, a professional should check for any blockages, as well as any build-up of byproducts.
The chimney should also be checked for cracks and other damage that could potentially lead to a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Cleaning a chimney requires special expertise and can be very dangerous if not done properly. For this reason, it’s always best to hire a qualified professional to do the job.
4. Remove Debris and Snow from Outdoor Units
The outdoor units of your HVAC system are subjected to dust, snow, and rain, so they need to be cleaned after regular intervals. When winter is about to start, the leaves begin to fall, and they may get lodged in these outdoor units.
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Also, snow can accumulate inside them and causes the efficiency of the system to drop down. That’s why the best thing you can do is to clean them yourself or call a heating maintenance professional to do it for you. They will inspect the units and will clean any debris or dust that may be accumulated in them.
