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When colder temperatures set in, keep your home and family comfortable and warm. To maintain the safety of the household and the efficient operation of the furnace, follow preventative procedures before turning the system on for the first time this season. Here are a few items to include on your checklist.

Check the Pilot Light

The pilot light is the heart of any furnace. It supplies the flame that ignites the gas coming out of the main burner. Without a pilot light, the system can’t function. First, check that it’s still lit; with periods of disuse, it's not uncommon for it to go out. To light it, consult the manufacturer's instructions or the label on the side of the unit.

For most furnaces, turn the pilot switch at the bottom of the unit to the “off” position, then wait at least five minutes before turning it to the “pilot” position. Hold down the reset button, usually located near the pilot switch; while holding it down, light the pilot with a long lighter until it catches. Finally, release the reset button and set the switch to the “on” position.

Replace the Air Filter

furnaceA furnace with a dirty or clogged air filter can’t generate the necessary amounts of clean, warm air. It also needs to work harder to produce any significant output, which results in higher heating costs and more wear and tear on the system.

For top results, replace the air filter at the beginning of the cold season, then every two to three months after that. The filter is typically located inside the unit or the return air vent. If it has a plastic frame, it is reusable, and an entire replacement is not necessary; vacuum off the filter and put it back in.

Do a Test Run

Ensure the furnace is working correctly before you need to use it daily. Turn up the thermostat so that the unit engages. Listen for a quiet and steady supply of air, staying alert for any unusual noises or sounds. Check for sufficient airflow at all vents, and remove any dust or debris that built up on and under the vents over the summer.

 

Schedule a furnace inspection with an HVAC repair professional at Bear Heating & Cooling. These experts have been serving Trumbull County, OH, since 1982. They provide heating and air conditioning repair and maintenance, as well as air quality testing and improvements. Call (330) 545-0743 or visit them online to schedule service.

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