Autumn is almost here, and that means that winter is just around the corner. In Wisconsin, we all know how important it is to be prepared for the brutal cold of the winter season. But, while we’re still out basking in the warm sunshine, our homes’ heating systems are the least of our worries. A well-maintained heating system is key to staying comfortable during the long winter season, so don’t skip your autumn preparations. To help you prepare for winter, our experts at Steve’s Plumbing & Heating discuss how to get your system ready for the frigid days ahead.
Perform a Preventative Maintenance Check
Because your furnace goes unused for several months during the summer, you should always perform a preventative maintenance check come fall. Here’s what you’ll need to examine:
● Thermostat. Turn your thermostat up to make sure it is working correctly and is still properly wired into the wall.
● Airflow. Check to make sure there is adequate airflow both to and from your furnace’s conditioning equipment.
● Wiring. Make sure all wires within your furnace are tight and secure.
● Burners. Check your furnace’s burner flame to make sure it is functional. The flame should be robust and bright blue; if it is weak or orange, it’s time to have your furnace serviced.
● Amp Draw. To make sure your heating system is drawing the appropriate amount of energy to function efficiently, use a multimeter to measure amp draw.
● Motor. Your furnace motor may need lubrication. It’s best to hire a professional to perform this service.
If you’re not sure what to look for, hire a professional to perform the service. Our expert technicians can quickly spot any issues in need of resolution and can perform the necessary repairs on the spot.
Replace Your Filter
If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your furnace filter, now is the perfect time to do it. When your filter becomes overly saturated with grime, dirt, and dust, it impedes the efficient functioning of your heating system. In fact, a dirty filter can increase your heating costs by up to 15 percent! And beyond increased heating costs, a dirty filter can introduce harmful particles and microorganisms into your home’s air. Because you’ll no doubt spend more time indoors over the winter season, these particles can trigger allergy symptoms and even illness.
Clean Your Heating System
Dust and other debris accumulate in your heating system while it’s inactive during the summer. Along with a clogged filter, this buildup can contribute to reduced heating efficiency. We recommend cleaning your system approximately once per year, and just before the winter season is the perfect time to do it. First, you’ll need to use a soft cleaning tool to gently loosen any buildup around the inner components of your system. Once you’ve loosed any debris, you’ll need to remove it using a portable vacuum.
If your system has a flame sensor, you’ll also need to gently wipe away buildup there. We recommend cleaning the sensor at least once per year to keep your system functioning optimally. While you can certainly perform a do-it-yourself furnace cleaning, we always recommend having your unit professionally serviced to ensure proper functioning throughout the winter.
Your Central Wisconsin Heating Experts
Before the cold weather hits, have your heating system serviced by the heating professionals at Steve’s Plumbing and Heating. Our highly trained technicians are educated well beyond industry standards to ensure you receive the highest quality service possible. Whether you need an inspection, or you know your system is due for repairs, we’ll get the job done right the first time. To request an estimate, or to schedule service on your heating system, contact our team today.