As the temperatures continue to drop, it’s essential to perform a few important steps to ensure safety, efficiency, and comfort this winter. In this blog post, the experts from Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning explore what you can do to increase the heating efficiency in your home.
Schedule a Professional Heating Inspection
Before you switch on your heater for the season, it’s a smart idea to have a professional HVAC technician inspect it. Regular maintenance helps identify potential issues early, ensuring that your system is running safely and efficiently. An inspection typically includes checking for gas leaks, cleaning burners, and ensuring electrical components are functioning properly.
Change or Clean the Air Filters
Dirty air filters can obstruct airflow, making your heater work harder and lowering air quality. If you haven’t changed your air filter in a few months, now is the time. For reusable filters, be sure to clean them thoroughly. A clean filter improves efficiency, keeps energy bills lower, and ensures cleaner air in your home.
Clean Air Vents & Ducts
Over time, dust, pet hair, and other debris can accumulate in your vents and ducts, leading to poor air circulation. Clean or vacuum the vents and consider hiring a professional to clean the ductwork. This will not only improve air quality but also help the heater run more efficiently.
Test Your Thermostat
Make sure your thermostat is working properly. Check that it turns the heater on and off as expected and that it responds to temperature changes. If you have an older thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to maximize efficiency and control heating costs.
Inspect Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide leaks can occur when your heater is not functioning properly, especially in gas furnaces. Ensure your carbon monoxide detectors are working and replace batteries if needed. If you don’t have one, it’s critical to install detectors before using the heater.
Check the Area Around the Heater
Ensure that there’s no clutter or flammable materials near your furnace or heating unit. Items like cleaning supplies, boxes, or furniture can be fire hazards. Keeping the area around your heater clear also promotes better airflow and reduces fire risks.
Open Air Vents
Before switching on the heater, make sure all air vents throughout your home are open and unblocked. Closing vents can cause pressure build-up, making your system work harder and potentially damaging it over time.
Turn on the Heater & Listen
Once you’ve completed these steps, turn on your heater and listen carefully. If you hear any strange noises like banging, rattling, or whistling, it could indicate an issue. In this case, turn the heater off and call a professional for further inspection.
Monitor for Strange Smells
When you first turn on the heater, it’s common to smell burning dust as the system burns off debris that has settled during the off-season. However, if the smell persists or you notice a gas-like odor, turn the heater off immediately and contact a professional.
Central Heating Furnace & Boiler Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement, Emergency Repairs & More in Springfield, Granby, Holyoke, South Hadley, Monson, Chicopee & Agawam, Massachusetts
By taking these proactive steps before turning on your heater, you’ll ensure that your system is safe, energy-efficient, and ready to keep you warm throughout the colder months. Routine maintenance and inspections from professionals at Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning can also extend the life of your heating system, saving you money in the long run. Schedule your heating inspection today with Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning to ensure your heater will function properly all winter long.