Preparing Your Heating System For Next Winter

27 May 2015 by Marvin Carroll

The best time to do maintenance on your heating system is when it is not going to be used. This will allow you the time to make repairs before cold weather sets in. Routine maintenance procedures will help in making your heating system run efficiently, saving you money as a result. Here are a few steps to take in preparing your furnace for the next cold snap.

Stay Safe While Doing Work

Turn off the power to your heating system before you start doing any work on it to keep yourself safe during the process. The switch is usually located right near the furnace on a red or black switch plate. If you cannot find this, turn off the fuel valve. This will be located near the energy source you are using or near the fuel pipe leading into your home.

Do A Deep Clean

Clean out the combustion chamber in your furnace to remove soot and charred remains left from the previous season. The combustion chamber is located in the front of your furnace and is the area where the gas used to heat your house ignites. Use a small wire brush to scrape the walls and ceiling of this area. Then use a vacuum cleaner attachment to remove the debris. Use a non-abrasive sponge dipped in water to scrub any portions from the area that were not removed with the brush. 

Change The Filters

The air filter in your furnace helps to keep impurities from getting dispersed throughout your home as heat comes out of your vents or baseboards. There are several types of filters available including some that help remove allergens such as pollen, dust mites and pet dander. The air filter is easily replaced by pulling out the old one and sliding in a new one. This step will help your furnace run more efficiently as it will not need to work as hard to suck in air to heat. Change your air filter no less than once a year for the best results. 

If you use oil heat in your home, replacing the oil filter during your yearly maintenance routine is recommended. Simply turn off the oil valve, unscrew the existing oil filter and replace with a new one.

Check The Flue

The flue pipe is where the heat goes as it is being transported toward your heating vents or baseboards. This chute comes out of your furnace and heads toward the ceiling. If the flue pipe is leaking, it will make your furnace run less effectively and can put you at risk for carbon monoxide exposure. Seal any visible cracks with foil tape. If there are any holes in the pipe, replace the entire piece.

If you have questions about the heating system in your home, don't hesitate to contact heating contractors in your area..

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