With summer about to end, many homes are slowly getting ready for the cold weather, which means turning on the heating systems. Prevent sudden furnace repairs at an inopportune time with a few maintenance tasks. Before switching it on for prolonged use, here’s what you should do to keep yours running smoothly and efficiently.

What Are the Steps to Take?

Turning on your furnace for the season isn’t as straightforward as pushing a button. The process involves a series of support tasks to ensure your heating equipment is in excellent working condition. 

Clean & Clear

Since it’s been months after its last use, your furnace is probably dirty from storage. Check the surrounding area for anything combustible nearby, such as gas cans, solvents, and other toxic chemicals. Clear out items near the furnace such as rags, papers, and boxes. Aside from preventing fires and explosions, doing so ensures that there’s enough ventilation around it to maintain proper airflow.

Using a vacuum or brush, clean the surface and accessible places, including the pilot light, burners, and blower fan. Refrain from working further to prevent dislodging the components from their position. Instead, leave that to the furnace repair professionals.

Change Air Filter

Another routine upkeep duty you can do is to replace or clean the air filters. If you have a reusable filter, vacuum the dust, wash with soapy water, and let it dry before putting it back. Otherwise, change the disposable filter at least every three months.

Check for Obstructions

As you clean the furnace, pay attention to black soot and other combustion residue found on it. Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks and the ductwork for gaps or openings. Check vents, exhaust, and the chimney for any obstructions like debris, loose leaves, and bird nests. Run the furnace for a few minutes to see if it’s heating as expected—if it isn’t, check the registers and clean the ducts.

Test the Detectors

Before calling furnace repair service for a faulty heater, first, check to see the thermostat works—you may need to replace it. While you’re at it, ensure that your carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms are functioning as well. Test them and replace the batteries as a precaution.  

Why You Should Call Professionals

Even if you’ve covered everything, you should still have a professional come in and check your heating equipment. A licensed HVAC contractor will do the basics of cleaning, lubricating, inspecting, and tuning up your furnace. They will also fix minor issues to prevent these from worsening.

Follow the steps above before turning on your furnace for the cold season. For quality furnace repairs, trust the HVAC contractors at Forquer Heating & Air Conditioning. Serving the community throughout Stark County, OH, they’ve provided exceptional HVAC services to commercial and residential clients since 1996. Call (330) 630-2645 to set an appointment for HVAC repair or visit their website to learn more about their services.