Soon the colder months will approach, and your home’s heating system becomes essential to your comfort. Whether you rely on a furnace or a boiler, preparing your system for winter is one of the most important steps you can take to avoid mid-season breakdowns, high energy bills, or even dangerous situations like carbon monoxide leaks. Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning would like to cover how to prepare your furnace or boiler for winter so you can stay warm and worry-free.

Schedule a Professional Heating Inspection & Tune-Up

Start with a professional HVAC tune-up in the early fall. A licensed technician can:
• Inspect and clean internal components.
• Check for worn-out parts.
• Lubricate moving parts.
• Test the system for efficiency.
• Detect and fix small issues before they turn into expensive repairs.
This is especially important for boilers, which may have issues with pressure valves, expansion tanks, or water leaks that are not obvious to the untrained eye.

Clean or Replace Furnace Air Filter

Furnaces rely on clean airflow to run efficiently. A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow, causing the system to work harder, overheat, or shut down. Replace or clean your furnace filter every 1 to 3 months during peak usage.

Bleed Radiators & Check Boiler Pressure

If you have a hot water or steam boiler, bleed your radiators to release trapped air that can prevent even heating. Check the boiler pressure which is usually between 1 to 2 bars when cool. If it is too low or high, consult your manual or a professional to adjust it safely.

Clean Around the Heating Unit

Clear any clutter, dust, or debris around the furnace or boiler. Make sure nothing flammable is nearby, especially paint cans, cleaning chemicals, or storage boxes. Also, check that vents and registers throughout your home are open and unblocked for proper airflow.

Inspect the Exhaust Vent & Chimney

For gas or oil systems, proper ventilation is important. Blocked or cracked flues and chimneys can cause dangerous carbon monoxide leaks. A professional technician should inspect and clean the exhaust flue and chimney to ensure safe operation.

Check Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Detectors

Heating systems, especially those using natural gas or oil, can be a source of carbon monoxide if something malfunctions. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working, make sure smoke detectors have fresh batteries. Additionally, have detectors installed on every level of your home. Test all detectors monthly during the heating season.

Look for Warning Signs of Heating Problems

During startup or test runs, watch for signs your heating system may need attention:
• Strange noises such as banging, whistling, grinding.
• Unusual smells like burning, musty, or rotten eggs.
• Uneven heating or cold spots.
• A system that turns off too soon or runs continuously.
If you notice any of these, do not ignore them. Schedule service right away.

Central Air Conditioner Maintenance, Replacement, Emergency Repairs & More in Springfield, Granby, Holyoke, South Hadley, Monson, Chicopee & Agawam, Massachusetts

Getting your furnace or boiler ready before winter hits will save you money, prevent surprise breakdowns, and help your system run more efficiently all season long. Routine maintenance and early inspections are key to making sure your home stays warm when it matters most. If you need help preparing your heating system for winter, contact Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning and schedule our services today!