Furnace Tune-Up Checklist: Preparing Your Heating System for Winter

Winter is coming, and it’s time to start thinking about preparing your furnace for the colder months. A malfunctioning furnace can be frustrating, especially during the winter season when keeping your home warm is crucial. To avoid costly repairs, it’s essential to do a pre-winter checkup to ensure that your furnace is in good working condition.

Here are five simple tasks you can do to prepare your furnace for winter.

1. Inspect the Furnace for Any Leaks

It’s crucial to inspect your furnace for any leaks before winter begins. Leaks can cause a decrease in efficiency, which will, in turn, lead to increased energy costs and even more expensive repairs. If you find any leaks, contact a professional furnace repair service immediately. Fixing a leaky furnace will not only help you save money on costly repairs down the road, but it can also prevent dangerous situations like gas leaks.

2. Clean or Replace the Filter

Furnace filters should be cleaned or replaced every 3-6 months, depending on usage. Over time, the filter can become dirty and clogged, restricting airflow to your furnace. This will cause your furnace to work harder than it needs to, leading to decreased efficiency and increased energy costs. Cleaning or replacing your filter regularly will help your furnace run more smoothly and efficiently during winter, avoiding untimely breakdowns.

3. Check the Pilot Light

The pilot light is an essential component of your furnace. If it goes out, your furnace won’t work. To check the pilot light, turn off all power to the furnace and wait for a few minutes for the gas to dissipate. Then, check the pilot light and see if it’s lit. If it’s not, you can light it yourself by holding a match or lighter over the pilot light’s opening. Observe the furnace and make sure it’s lit for a few moments. If the pilot light cannot be relit, seek professional assistance from an experienced HVAC company.

4. Test Your Thermostat

Set your thermostat to “heat” and turn up the temperature setting five to 10 degrees higher than where you currently have it. You should hear your furnace kick on almost immediately. If you don’t, you may have a faulty thermostat or damaged wiring, which you’ll want to have repaired before winter weather arrives.

5. Get an Annual Maintenance Tune-up

It’s essential to get your furnace checked by a professional to ensure that it’s in good working condition. During the tune-up, your technician will inspect all your heating system components and make any necessary repairs or replacements. They’ll also ensure that your furnace runs efficiently and safely. You may need them to replace parts or make adjustments for better performance during the winter months, which can be expensive if you try doing it yourself. Having your furnace checked can save you time and money in the long run!

Preparing your furnace for winter doesn’t have to be a troublesome task. By inspecting the furnace for any leaks, cleaning or replacing the filter, checking the pilot light, testing the thermostat, and getting an annual maintenance checkup, you can help ensure that your furnace is in good working order and won’t break down when you need it most. Taking care of these simple tasks now will save you time and money in the long run!

Contact a professional HVAC company like Northern Climate Control to help you with your furnace maintenance needs. Our skilled technicians serve the entire Denver Metro Area. Get in touch with us today to get started.