The warmer days of spring are coming; you probably won’t need your furnace to heat your home anymore. However, that does not mean you can just simply leave your heating equipment in the corner. You must continue to provide regular maintenance to the system. A full tune-up will help maintain the good working condition of your furnace, especially when it has been used heavily over the winter.
Here’s how you can take good care of your furnace when the spring season arrives:
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Turn the Power off
Are you trying to decide whether or not to turn off your furnace in spring? Well, if you are looking to save money on your monthly energy bills, shutting off the system completely during the time of year is the way to go. This can help prevent heating your home accidentally when you have a malfunctioning thermostat or small kids who like to mess around with the device a lot.
Change the Air Filter
After experiencing heavy use in winter, your furnace air filters will most likely be dirty and dusty. Clogged filters block normal airflow and reduce the overall efficiency of the system. To prepare your furnace for the next heating season, make sure to replace its air filters every two to three months or as needed. The United States Department of Energy recommends replacing a dirty and clogged filter with a clean one to lower your HVAC’s energy consumption by 5 percent to 15 percent.
Inspect all Electrical Connections
According to Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), home electrical fires account for an estimated 51,000 fires each year. One way to maintain electrical safety in your household is to inspect all your appliances’ electrical connections, including your HVAC. With your heater completely shut off in spring, you can safely check the system for frayed or chewed wiring and other electrical issues.
Clean the Area Surrounding your Furnace
Always keep the area around your furnace clean and free from debris. Storing household items near the space is a major fire hazard and reduces airflow. Industry experts say that furnaces should be at least 30 inches away from the furnace room walls on all sides. This will provide maintenance personnel easy and hassle-free access to the system.
Call a Professional Heating Maintenance
While there are HVAC maintenance tasks you can do on your own, there are also those that are best left to the pros. Whether you are noticing some issues with your furnace or not, you must call a licensed HVAC contractor to inspect the system. There are major furnace problems that only a pro can detect. Unless you call for a professional heating tune-up or maintenance, you’ll never be able to save your furnace from early deterioration.
When it’s Time for a new Furnace Installation
According to Infinity Air Solutions, the average lifespan of a furnace is between 15 and 20 years. When your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may need frequent repairs, costing you a lot of money. It is time you consider a new furnace installation.
To satisfy your home’s heating needs, only trust a licensed and experienced HVAC company to serve you. Get quality consultations and estimates from your trusted HVAC pros today!
