As fall approaches, you can expect the temperature to drop…which means that you’ll probably be using your furnace a lot more often. It’s important to make sure that your furnace is ready for the task – both for your safety and to make sure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently and won’t be wasting any money. Here are several of the most important things you can do to get your furnace ready.
Keep Your Furnace Clear and Clean
Make a close visual inspection of your furnace. Clear away anything that may be obstructing the furnace, leaving plenty of space around it. Sometimes, over the warmer months, supplies can get piled around the furnace and will be fire hazards if they aren’t removed. Depending on where your furnace is, you may also want to clear up debris around the floor. Then take a closer look and dust off your furnace if it’s dirty: Use a clean cloth to clear away any dirt or dust, and sweep away cobwebs, etc. If your furnace uses fuel, you may want to open it up and take a look inside to see if residue build-up is a problem.
Replace Your Filters
You should be replacing your HVAC filters every several months or so, and this fall maintenance is the perfect time to put in a new filter. A lot of dust can circulate through the house when the air is more contained during colder times, and this can affect allergies and other issues. A new filter will help deal with these problems, while also making sure that air circulation stays efficient. Typically air filters are cheap and easy to replace, but if you aren’t really sure what to do, contact Buckeye and arrange for a filter replacement as part of your maintenance!
Check Fuel Levels
If your furnace uses LP, make sure your LP levels are good and that you have scheduled refills at the right intervals. If you are using natural gas, fuel level probably isn’t an issue, but you should at least take a look at the pilot light and make sure it is still functioning correctly and that there’s no residue buildup. If you have a heat pump, consider getting a professional inspection of your refrigerant level to see if it needs to be topped off.
Check Your Venting if Necessary
If your furnace burns a fuel, check your venting to make sure it is clean, connected, and hasn’t gotten clogged while the furnace wasn’t being used. Venting is very important for safety, and for the health of your furnace!
Do a Test Run to Watch and Listen
Turn your furnace on and watch to make sure that the burners are igniting properly. Listen to see if the furnace is making any unusual noises or rattles. Be especially wary of unexpected bangs or thumping, a sign you should turn the furnace off and call a professional.
Arrange for a Deeper Inspection
If you’re worried that something may be wrong with your furnace, or you have an older furnace and think it may be time for a deeper inspection, then call Buckeye Heating & Cooling today to schedule a fall furnace inspection! Our professionals know what to watch for, and what maintenance steps that your HVAC system may need. We can also help you decide if a new furnace is the right choice while preparing for the colder months.
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