Follow These Tips To Prepare Your Furnace and AC for the Winter
When it’s that time of year again — when the leaves change color and the days get shorter — you know winter is just around the corner. This means it’s time to start thinking about preparations for the cold weather ahead. One of the most important things to take care of is your home heating and cooling system. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with some tips on how to maintain your furnace and prepare AC unit for winter.
1. Change the Filter
One of the most important things you can do to prepare your furnace for winter is to change the filter. A dirty filter will not only make your furnace work harder, but it can also lead to health problems for you and your family. Be sure to check and change the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have a reusable filter, simply rinse it off with water and let it dry completely before putting it back in the furnace. If you have a disposable filter, replace it with a new one of the same size and type.
Most filters should be changed every three months, but if you live in an area with a lot of dust or pet hair, you may need to change it more often. Another important tip is to make sure a professional properly services your furnace before winter starts. This will help ensure that your furnace is running efficiently and safely. When the cold weather hits, you’ll be glad you took the time.
2. Inspect the Furnace
If you have a gas furnace, it’s important to get it inspected by a professional every year. This is because there is the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning if there are any leaks in the system. If you have an electric furnace, you don’t need to get it professionally inspected, but you should still take a look at it yourself to make sure everything looks clean and in good working order.
Dust around the furnace, as this can be a fire hazard. Also, check the pilot light to make sure it’s still lit. If you have any doubts about anything, it’s always better to call a professional for an inspection.
3. Schedule a Tune-Up
Just like your car, your furnace or AC unit benefits from a tune-up before the winter season. All the moving parts need to be lubricated and checked for any potential issues. A professional HVAC technician will also clean out any dirt and debris that may have accumulated over the summer months. This tune-up will help your system run more efficiently and prevent any breakdowns during the winter.
4. Check the Thermostat
Your thermostat controls the temperature in your home, so it’s important to ensure it’s working properly. Test it by setting the temperature lower than the current room temperature and see if the furnace turns on. If not, there may be an issue with the thermostat that needs to be addressed.
5. Clear the Area Around the Outdoor Unit
If you have a central air conditioner, the outdoor unit must be clear of debris or obstructions. This includes things like leaves, branches, and other yard waste. If the unit is obstructed, it won’t be able to work properly and could overheat. Furthermore, if snow or ice accumulates on the unit, it’s important to remove it so the unit can function properly.
How To Prepare Furnace for Winter
By following these tips, you can be sure that your furnace and AC are ready for the winter season. This will help you stay comfortable all winter long and avoid any costly repairs. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact a professional HVAC technician for help. Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling is always here to help! Give us a call today. Stay warm this winter.