As the weather gets cooler, homeowners will be raising the temperature on the thermostat. But before turning on the heater, it’s important to take the following five simple steps.
- Replace the filter
If the air conditioner was on all summer, then you can expect the air filter to be clogged with dust, pollen, and other contaminants. A clogged filter could also keep your furnace from blowing warm air. It’s important to replace the filter every 60 to 90 days to ensure your furnace is working efficiently and keep energy costs down.
- Seal air leaks
Over time, the caulking around windows, doors, and crawl spaces can wear off and lead to air leaks. These air leaks force the furnace to work harder and longer to bring indoor temperatures up. Take the time to walk around the home and check for air leaks. Re-caulk the windows and add weatherstripping on your doors.
- Clean the vents
Air vents may become covered in mold, pollen, dust, pet hair, and other debris. This buildup can obstruct airflow and make it hard to heat the home during the dead of winter. Use a wet rag or vacuum to clean the vents around the home.
- Clean the outdoor unit
The outdoor unit can become clogged with sticks, weeds, leaves, and other debris. Turn off the electricity to the HVAC unit before hosing down the fan. Cleaning the outdoor unit will also help remove the pollen and air contaminants that may get into your home through the system.
- Schedule a professional inspection
A professional inspection by a licensed HVAC technician could help identify future problems and prevent costly breakdowns in the middle of winter. During an inspection, the HVAC technician will check the burner flame color, and look for signs of a rusted flue, moisture buildup, animal activity, cold spots, and strange sounds. Any of these signs could indicate a serious problem that should be taken care of as soon as possible.
Call Blue Apple Electric today for a furnace inspection and get ready for cooler weather!