Whether you are hosting an intimate family gathering or throwing a big party, getting your heating system ready now will make sure your holiday event goes off without a hitch. This guide will walk you through a variety of maintenance tips for your furnace to ensure you have reliable comfort all winter long.
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Furnace Tune-Up Tips for the Winter Season
Are you wondering how to maintain your heating system throughout the winter season? Take a look at our top furnace maintenance tips to see how you can maximize energy efficiency, reduce monthly energy costs, and minimize the need for repairs or a replacement.
1. Swap Your Dirty Furnace Air Filter
Over time, the filter in your furnace gets clogged with dust, allergens, and other debris. This blockage hinders airflow, which raises your utility bill by using more energy to produce the same amount of heat. It also increases wear and tear, which shortens the lifespan of the unit.
You should replace the filter at least every one to three months, maybe more often if you have a large household or pets since airborne contaminants will be greater. Regularly replacing the furnace filter will maintain proper airflow, maximize efficiency, and increase cost savings.
2. Change Thermostat Batteries and Configure Your Thermostat
The thermostat is the control center of your furnace. The last thing you want is to be left in the cold because you forgot to put new batteries in your thermostat before winter weather arrived. An easy maintenance tip for your thermostat includes changing the batteries at the start of each heating season to prevent the thermostat from failing, leaving you without heat. Keep plenty of extra batteries on hand in case of an emergency.
Programming your thermostat is one of the best ways to increase energy efficiency and enhance comfort throughout the winter months. Unless you want your home to be the same temperature as it was in the summer or fall, you will need to reprogram the thermostat settings to make sure you stay warm all winter long.
Consider what times during the day you will and won’t be home, your sleeping schedule, and how many guests will be around during the holidays. These factors, among others, will help you configure an operating schedule for your furnace throughout the cold months.
Read More: Why Does Your Furnace Keep Running?
3. Schedule Professional Maintenance and Safety Inspections
While homeowners can handle some maintenance tasks, it’s essential to schedule a professional furnace inspection and maintenance service. A qualified technician can identify and address potential issues, clean components, and optimize the performance of your furnace for the winter season.
By incorporating these additional tips, homeowners can proactively maintain their furnaces, ensuring efficient and safe heating during the winter months and throughout the holiday season.
4. Clear the Area Around Your Furnace
Maintain a clutter-free zone around your furnace. Remove any stored items, boxes, or debris from the furnace area to ensure proper ventilation and prevent potential fire hazards. This simple furnace maintenance tip not only enhances safety but also facilitates easier access for any necessary inspections or repairs.
5. Clean Vents and Registers
Ensure that all air vents and registers throughout your home are unobstructed. Move furniture or other items that may be blocking the airflow. This helps maintain consistent heating and prevents strain on your furnace.
6. Check for Carbon Monoxide Leaks
Install a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace and sleeping areas. Regularly check the detector’s batteries and test its functionality. Carbon monoxide leaks can be dangerous, so having a functioning detector is crucial for your safety.
Read More: Top Reasons Why the Burners in Your Furnace Will Not Light
7. Monitor and Adjust Humidity Levels
Keep an eye on the humidity levels in your home during the winter. Furnaces can contribute to dry air, which may affect both your comfort and the efficiency of your heating system. Use a humidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels, typically between 30-40%. This not only enhances your indoor comfort but also helps your furnace operate more effectively.
What Temperature Should You Set Your Thermostat to in the Winter?
The temperature you should set your thermostat to depends on factors such as the size of your home, how many people live in your household, and how warm you want to be. The ideal indoor winter temperature when you are home and awake is 68° Fahrenheit.
You should bump the temperature down a few degrees when you are sleeping or out running errands. In fact, lowering the temperature between seven and ten degrees for eight hours each day can help you save up to 10% on annual heating costs.
Expert Furnace Tune-Up, Cleaning, and Repair Services for Homes
If you need furnace tune-up and cleaning services for your home, look no further than our team of professionals. Our technicians will perform maintenance and keep your unit operating efficiently so you and your guests can enjoy premium home comfort all winter long. Our technicians will remove excess dust in your system and can help you replace damaged components. Performing maintenance on your heating system will help you spend less on your monthly energy bills.
If your heating system causes problems right before guests arrive, we have got you covered with emergency furnace repairs. We will be in and out of your home in no time. Our professionals offer heating maintenance services in Annapolis, MD and will help you get your furnace ready for the winter season. Give us a call at 1-800-642-4419 to book an appointment with our team.