How to Prepare Your Furnace for Winter

Nobody wants to think about cold weather and snow! However, winter is fast approaching and having your furnace ready means you’ll be cozy and comfortable through the chilly months. A loose part or a worn component has the potential to cause serious problems. A properly maintained furnace delivers maximum heat output without wasted energy or the risk of harmful emissions. To ensure your home furnace operates optimally, employ the following maintenance tips.

• Clean the area: Remove any items you have stored near the furnace. Remove household items that are sitting on top of or in front of your air ducts and return vents. Vacuum cold-air return registers.
• Check the thermostat: Set the temperature a few degrees higher than the current room temperature. Listen for the furnace to kick on. If it doesn’t start within a few minutes, pull off the thermostat cover and check that the wire connections are secure. Make sure the power source to the HVAC system (heating ventilation and air conditioning) is turned on.
• Change the filter: Dust, pet hair, and debris accumulate in your furnace filter preventing air from moving through properly. Ensure your furnace is as efficient and long-lasting as possible by changing your filter every 3 months. If you have a permanent electrostatic filter, wash it every three months. If a humidifier is part of your system, change the filter and set the humidistat.
• Dust and vacuum: Dust, dirt and debris can cause a furnace to work sub-optimally. Use a soft-tipped paint brush applied gently against the inner components of the furnace to loosen dust and debris. Then gently vacuum.
• Clean the flame sensor: Unscrew the sensor from the furnace. Holding it at the bottom, clean the sensor with an emery cloth. Screw the sensor back in place.
• Clean and lubricate the blower motor: Check the owner’s manual to ensure your motor is the kind that needs lubricating. Turn off the power, open the furnace cover. The blower is located right after the air filter. Use a damp cloth to wipe the caps covering the bearings, the pulleys and belts, removing accumulated dirt. Oil the furnace blower motor.
• Check the carbon monoxide detector: Read the instructions for the model of detector you have. Test that the device is working. If you do not have a carbon monoxide detector, install one.
• Clean the vents: Remove the vent covers and clean the inside using a vacuum cleaner.
• Check the main air ducts near the furnace. Seal any leaks using foil tape or duct mastic.
• Check the intake and exhaust Pipes: Usually located outside your home, these pipes can be clogged with leaves, debris, snow and ice. Check them frequently.

If these steps seem overwhelming or you are unsure you can complete them, call a furnace repair professional. They will provide a thorough cleaning and a check to make sure everything is running smoothly. Problems you might not notice will be obvious to an experienced furnace technician. Check your warranty to discover whether it is necessary to have an authorized HVAC technician do an annual maintenance.

Before cold weather strikes, turn on your furnace to discover if it’s working properly. Undertake a general cleaning and maintenance routine. Proper and regular maintenance of your furnace will ensure you have heat when you need it, reduce your heating and repair bills, and prolong the life of your furnace. A yearly preventative maintenance inspection by a qualified service technician will help keep your HVAC functioning at peak efficiency.

Need help on how to prepare your furnace for winter? Call Calgary based Plumbing Paramedics. Our knowledgeable, experienced, friendly HVAC technicians will ensure your furnace is ready for cold weather needs. Plumbing Paramedics hires only those we would trust in our own homes!