When winter comes, you should be able to curl up in a comfortably heated home. Before you start your heating system for the season, however, run through this preventative checklist. It can spare you from needless furnace repairs and assure a safe and efficient system.

How to Avoid Wintertime Furnace Repairs

1. Check the Air Filter

The cleanliness of your air filter impacts the indoor air quality. If you have a disposable filter, swap it out this fall—do this every two to three months. If you have a reusable filter, vacuum off any dust before washing it gently with soap and water.

2. Flush the Drain Line

Check the furnace drain line for leaks. If it’s intact, get rid of residue that has accumulated during drainage. To do so, remove the hose and mix a solution of 1/4 bleach and 3/4 water to flush it. This encourages efficient function and helps avoid furnace repairs.

3. Check for Broken or Worn Parts

Give the furnace a general inspection to ensure all parts are in working order. There should be no loose connections in ductwork; if there are, seal them with metal duct tape until an expert can provide a solution. The blower belt should be free of cracks; if it's worn, have a professional replace it. If there are signs of combustion residue like black soot, schedule an inspection.

4. Deep Clean

Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean accessible parts of the furnace. Also, take a dust cloth and clear away debris and grime from vents in all the rooms. This prevents particles from circulating into the air you breathe once the system starts running.

5. Clear Out Debris From Exhaust Areas

Your furnace vents either through a side wall of your home or via a chimney. Don’t let debris clog up this exhaust area—check that it's free of obstructions. Dead leaves or even small animals could have fallen in.

Let Wilson Heating of Marietta, OH, prepare your furnace for winter. These trusted HVAC contractors employ a skilled team of NATE-certified technicians. As a family-owned and -operated business, they pride themselves on honest, prompt, and reliable service. Visit their website for an overview of all of their heating services, from furnace repair to heating installation. For an appointment, call (740) 373-7874.