It’s about that time of year where we put away our air conditioners and take out our heaters. That’s all well and good until someone takes out a heater that’s not working well. Then things get a lot more complicated.
Our main goal is to keep homes in our area warm and toasty this fall, winter, and spring. We don’t care about selling the latest and greatest technology if it doesn’t benefit our customers. To get everyone in the area started on the right track, we’re going to list our heater checklist. This can help remind those homeowners who forgot to schedule HVAC maintenance in Westchester to start gearing up for colder temperatures.
Between heater maintenance and a few DIY tips and tricks, anyone’s system can be ready to face the months ahead.
As Comprehensive as It Gets!
We’re writing this to help those who need to get their ducks in a row before the chilly temperatures arrive. Feel free to print this checklist or write it down so these points are harder to forget. Neglect is home comfort’s biggest enemy.
1. Schedule Heating Maintenance
Heating maintenance is one of the best services anyone could invest in when it comes to keeping comfortable this winter. This service allows a licensed professional to inspect the system for any repair needs that are required. They can also make minor adjustments and repairs that help increase the lifespan of the system as well as improve efficiency levels. Basically, heater maintenance is vital; going without it is the first big problem a homeowner will have to deal with.
2. Clear the Air Filter
If any homeowners out there forgot to clear their heater’s air filter last year, it’s not that big of a deal. As long as the air filter is cleared now, the system should be ready to combat the cold temperatures with the airflow it needs. Make sure the air filter is replaced facing the same direction to maximize the airflow and catch contaminants in their tracks.
3. Clean Around the System
Dust can gather in a basement or closet where the heater is located. Sometimes this can be a huge problem for the system since it needs fresh air to be funneled through it. Yes, the air filter helps in this regard, but sometimes it’s not enough. Dusting around the heater can help mitigate this problem and extend the time between air filter cleanings.
Also, if anyone has a natural gas furnace, it’s a good idea to keep anything flammable at least two feet away from the system at all times. This ensures any home is safe from fire hazards.
4. Insulate the Home
Insulation helps keep the cold out and the heat in, so it might be time to invest in professional insulation services. Don’t worry, every little bit helps, from putting plastic across drafty windows to calling a pro like us for ductwork modification.
5. Evaluate the Condition of the System
If a system isn’t equipped to handle the winter ahead, it might be time to upgrade to a system that is. Talk to a professional about the age and quality of the heater that’s in use and they might be able to hook up a newer and better system that can handle the job.
The team at Yost & Campbell Heating, Cooling & Generators can help. Give us a call today!