When winter comes, you look forward to a warm home without worrying about problems with the furnace. Now is the time to ensure your unit works perfectly. Before heating contractors fill their appointment calendars and temperatures plummet, here’s how to check your home heating system. 

Getting Your Furnace Ready for the Winter Season

Change Your Furnace Filter

Clogged and dirty filters block proper airflow, preventing your furnace from operating efficiently. Changing your unit’s filter before running it for the season saves on heating costs. Make sure all heating vents are uncovered for proper circulation.

Inspect the Furnace Chimney

Birds use chimneys as nesting places during the furnace off-season. Look for nests, leaves, soot, and debris that clog chimneys. Before operating your unit for the season, eliminate fire hazards by cleaning the chimney or calling a professional chimney sweep.

Clean Furnace Burners

Furnace burners tend to gather dust and debris in the off-season. Clean them, and inspect for proper alignment, signs of wear, and rust.

Lubricate Blowers

Your furnace should operate quietly and effectively. A noisy furnace blower motor may mean it needs oil. Annual oiling helps maintain good performance with minimal noise.

Check Thermostat Function

Switch your thermostat from cool to heat and set the temperature for a few degrees higher than the room temperature. In a minute or two, the furnace should come on. If nothing happens, make sure the power source for the unit is on and the wire connections are secure. After confirming those items, if the system still doesn’t work, you may need a heating contractor. 

Since 1985, the heating contractors at Donovan & Jorgenson of New Berlin, WI, have provided gas furnace repair and maintenance to homeowners in the Greater Milwaukee area. With three locations to meet your heating and cooling furnace needs and an A+ rating by the BBB®, these professionals keep you comfortable and happy in every season. Visit them online to schedule an appointment.