As the winter season is fast approaching, are you prepared? The best way to get ready for winter is to get your heating system up-to-date. Not only does this provide better comfort at home, but it can also save money on your monthly bills during the cold months.
Professional heating contractors can help you do this by performing necessary repairs and routine maintenance.
If you’re looking to hire a heating contractor, be sure to do your research first. Find one who is licensed and insured, and ask for references from past clients.
Once you’ve found the right contractor, here are eight tips that they can do to help get your heating system ready for winter:
1. Check The Furnace Filter And Exterior
The furnace filter is a crucial part of your heating system. A dirty filter can reduce airflow and cause the furnace to work harder than necessary, leading to increased energy costs. The contractor should check the filter and replace it if necessary.
A clean filter also prevents dust and other air pollutants from entering the home. For optimal indoor air quality, ask your contractor to check the furnace ducts while they’re at your home for this service.
The outside of the furnace should also be cleaned at least once a year, and your contractor can do this for you.
It’s an integral part of the job because it helps keep your heating system running efficiently. It also prevents any dirt, dust, or debris from accumulating on the unit, which could lead to problems down the road.
2. Clean Blower Motor And Unit Coils
The blower motor and its associated unit coils also need to be checked because they play a vital role in keeping your furnace running at peak performance. The contractor should clean the coil, lubricate the motor bearings, and replace any worn or cracked belts.
This service will prevent damage to the blower motor, so it won’t need to be replaced. It also helps ensure your heating system operates efficiently throughout the winter, leading to energy savings.
Once the blower motor and unit coils are clean, the contractor can also check the condition of the furnace ducts.
3. Test And Balance Your Ducts
Along with furnace filters, dirty ducts are another reason many homeowners experience poor indoor air quality due to dust and other pollutants. A contractor can test the ducts for leaks and then balance them to operate as efficiently as possible.
This service is essential in preparing your heating system for winter because it prevents air from leaking out of the ducts. It also makes sure that heated air travels quickly throughout your home once you turn up the temperature.
After the ducts have been balanced, the contractor can also seal any leaks found and install insulation around them if necessary.
4. Test The Thermostat And Circuit Boards
The thermostat should also be inspected because it can affect your home’s indoor temperature. It’s important because if the thermostat isn’t working properly, it can lead to discomfort in your home and higher energy bills. An HVAC contractor will test the circuit boards, replace any broken or defective thermostats, and ensure everything works properly.
This service will also make your system easier to adjust and control throughout the winter months, resulting in more accurate temperature control and lower energy costs because you won’t be overcompensating for a faulty thermostat.
5. Check The Gas Pressure
If your home uses a natural gas heating system, the contractor should check the gas pressure to ensure it’s set correctly. It’s an essential service because if the gas pressure is too high or too low, it can affect the furnace’s performance.
Your contractor can also check the pilot light to make sure it’s burning properly, and there are no obstructions in the gas line.
6. Inspect The Burner Assembly
Once the contractor has cleaned the furnace filter, ducts, and everything else involved in your system’s operation, it’s time to inspect the burner assembly. This will ensure your furnace is ready for winter.
During this service, your contractor will clean out any ash or debris from previous seasons, ensure the gas valves are working correctly, and adjust the burner as needed.
7. Tighten All Electrical Connections
Loose electrical connections are a fire hazard, so all contractors’ work must be done safely and securely. They will tighten all of the electrical connections in your heating system, including those in the furnace, blower motor, and thermostat.
It’s an important safety measure that will help keep your family safe this winter. It also ensures that your heating system functions as it should and doesn’t pose a risk of fire.
8. Check The Exhaust Piping
The exhaust piping is the last thing to be inspected before your heating system is ready for winter. If it’s not functioning, the contractor will repair or replace it.
This service is essential because the exhaust piping directs harmful pollutants away from your home. It also ensures that your heating system doesn’t produce any excessive noise while it’s running.
9. Turn Up Your Heat
If all of the furnace and ductwork is in working order, it’s time to turn up the heat. When you do so, the contractor will see how your system operates with a load on it. This service ensures everything is running correctly and makes sure your heating system is ready for winter.
This service helps your heating contractor and their company prepare for winter by allowing them to see how your system is running when it’s not at its most efficient. Acting on the results they see during this step will help prevent any problems in the future that could be caused by poor furnace performance.
Final Thoughts
Your heating system can provide you with many years of service if it’s maintained by a professional. It’ll help you stay warm when the weather gets cold, save money on your energy bills and keep your home safe. If you have any questions or concerns about your heating system, you must consider contacting an HVAC contractor for more information.