As temperatures drop, you depend more than ever on your HVAC system to provide your home with consistent warmth. Given that your comfort is directly associated with the unit’s efficiency, heating contractors recommend employing a few basic maintenance tips before switching it on for the season. Here’s what you need to know to protect the life and health of your heater.

What You Should Do Before Switching on Your Heater

1. Replace the Filter

Filters are designed to maintain a consistent flow of clean air while blocking harmful particles. When it becomes clogged with dirt and debris, your furnace can’t effectively do its job—and you may end up paying more in heating bills because the unit works overtime to warm your home. It’s best to replace the filter before turning on the heat, and swapping it for a new one every month.

2. Test the Thermostat

Don’t let a broken thermostat cause a heating catastrophe. Simply testing it before temperatures drop can help! Dial it up and listen for the furnace to turn on. If you don’t hear anything or your comfort level does not change, the thermostat may need new batteries. In most cases, replacing them once a year is sufficient.

3. Inspect Exterior Vents

Head outside and check the intake and exhaust vents for signs of interference. It’s not unusual for a bird to create a nest at the opening, for example, or for leaves, insects, or even small rodents to make a home inside. A heating contractor can properly clean these out so that your unit is safe to operate when it cools down.

4. Clear the Surroundings

There should be sufficient clearance space around any component of your HVAC system. You don’t want airflow around the furnace to be obstructed, and your heating contractor will require a clear pathway to access the unit during inspection. Make sure there are no combustibles surrounding the furnace, as these could prove hazardous.

5. Schedule an Inspection

HVAC repair professionals recommend scheduling annual maintenance before you switch on the heater for the season. They’ll confirm that all of the parts are working properly, and conduct any necessary furnace repairs before they have a chance to become more problematic. Handling these concerns now will ensure that you remain comfortable all season.

The heating contractors at Air Rescue are proud to offer reliable, efficient service throughout St. Charles County, MO, and the St. Louis metropolitan area. Not only do they conduct thorough inspections of your HVAC system, but they also offer 24-hour emergency service. If you encounter an unexpected problem, you can trust them to be there when you need them most. Visit the company online to find out more about their heating repair and maintenance services, or give them a call at (314) 732-0555 at any time of day.