Use this Checklist to Keep Your Heating System Running Efficiently
Fall is the perfect time to maintain your heating system. The hot weather has passed, and you system has likely been dormant for several months. There are several things you can do to ensure it’s running at 100%. Plus, you can be confident that you’re ready for the approaching colder months. The potential savings on home heat will be well worth the time to check your system.
1. Thermostat Settings
First, set the thermostat to “Heat” and raise the thermostat temperature until you hear the system turn on. It should turn on when you set the thermostat one or two degrees warmer than the current room temperature. If you hear any unusual sounds when the furnace starts, call a technician for help. You might smell a burnt odor, but this is usually just dust that has settled on the heating components over the summer. It should dissipate quickly. If it doesn’t, or if you experience any unusual odors, call a professional.
Next, program your thermostat considering the hours when family members will be home. You can often program your thermostat to run your furnace during the hours you are typically home. This keeps you comfortable without wasted money.
2. Electrical Connections
Look for any broken or exposed wires, burn marks or other potential issues. These could pose a fire risk and require professional repair. If you find any, call a professional right away.
3. Lubricate Moving Parts
Some older furnaces have exposed motor parts that require lubrication. Just two or three drops of 10 weight motor oil will do the trick. Do not use other types of oil. Consider calling in a professional for this service. If you are unsure if your furnace requires this sort of maintenance, call a professional.
3. Fuel Connections
Look for leaks on all fuel lines. Greasy floor stains are signs of a leak. Not only will you lose fuel, but air can also enter the system while it is operating, sapping heater efficiency and costing you money. Be sure to follow the lines from the furnace all the way to the fuel tank and call a technician if you find problems.
4. Ductwork Inspection
With the fan on, check the flow of air from the furnace throughout the house and make sure air is blowing from all vents. Call for professional help if any of the vents are blocked.
5. Address any Signs of Rust
It’s extremely important that you check for signs of rust. If you see it anywhere on the system, there’s a chance that hidden parts are rusty too. A rusting or leaking heat exchanger can be deadly. If you see any rust on your system, call for professional help.
6. Change Filter
Dirty filters make your furnace work harder, which costs you money. Most homeowners can handle this job without professional help. If you are unsure of your filter type, give us a call.
Remember, if you see signs of rust, soot, or leaking fuel, smell strange odors or hear strange sounds coming from your furnace, it’s time to call a professional.
Call Sullivan Heating & Cooling at (360) 405-0723 for your heating system maintenance. You can also reach us by filling out our online contact form. We can perform your fall furnace maintenance and take care of any necessary repairs.
