When temperatures begin to fall, you'll rely on your HVAC system to keep your home warm and cozy. You certainly don't want to experience a furnace breakdown on a particularly chilly day, which is why you must make sure the unit is winter-ready. To prepare the system for the cold months ahead, follow these steps with the help of a heating contractor.

How to Get Your Furnace Ready for Winter

1. Calibrate the Thermostat

When a thermostat falls out of calibration, its sensors won't accurately detect indoor air temperatures, making it difficult to warm your home. Place a thermometer next to the thermostat for about 10 to 15 minutes, and then compare the readings. If they differ, adjust the offset temperature to reflect the thermometer. This typically requires accessing the "offset temperature" screen from the home menu, but check the owner's manual to make sure.

2. Change the Filter

Furnace filters collect dirt, dust, pollen, and pet dander from the intake air before warming it. When filters become saturated with debris, impurities and contaminants can enter the air supply, causing allergy flareups and upper respiratory issues. Replace the filter before winter arrives and once monthly afterward to prevent this.

3. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Gas furnaces emit a colorless and odorless yet highly poisonous gas known as carbon monoxide. When inhaled in large volumes, it may cause severe illness or fatality. To prevent health issues, install CO2 detectors throughout your home that'll sound alarms when levels of this noxious gas become unsafe.

4. Insulate the Ductwork

Central heating systems use ductwork to carry warm air from the heat exchanger to the vents. Have a heating contractor wrap these features with fiberglass insulation and secure it with foil tape to prevent heat from escaping through tiny fissures. This increases indoor comfort, promotes efficiency, and minimizes utility expenses.

Get your HVAC system ready for changing weather conditions with help from the team at Rapids Sheet Metal Heating & Cooling. These air conditioning and heating contractors provide HVAC maintenance, repairs, and new installations to homes throughout Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Call (715) 301-0256 to schedule an HVAC inspection before winter, and visit their website to learn more about how they can keep your indoor area comfortable year-round.