No matter what time of year it is, it’s never too late to properly maintain your furnace. Proper care and preventive maintenance will keep a furnace running smoothly. Now is not the time for a breakdown.
Preventive maintenance is typically performed in the fall, allowing professionals to catch any minor problems before they turn into major ones, as well as avoiding a system failure on a cold winter’s day. However, an inspection can occur any time of year.
A few things that a heating system professional will look at and test are:
- Connections
- Leaks and drafts
- Voltage
- Thermostat cycle
- Lubricate internal parts
- Drains and pipes checked
- Check settings for optimal comfort
- Any necessary cleaning of dirt, soot, etc.
Here are some steps that homeowners can do to make sure a furnace is running at optimal efficiency:
- Check air filters every month and change when dirty or soiled. A clean filter is pure white; a dirty filter will look dingy.
- The seal around the outer house is called the home’s “envelope.” Make sure all outer windows, doors, walls and attic are sealed. Drafts around windows or doors, for example, can be caulked. Foam spray can be used in wider gaps.
- A leak in duct work hinders air flow. A product called duct-sealing mastic can be used to close up leaks. This product is like pancake batter. Wear a glove to apply the mastic over every joint in the ductwork. It will stay on the ductwork once it cures and will seal all joints.
These are relative simple steps homeowners can do on their own. Preventive maintenance results in higher furnace efficiency and reliability, lower energy output and bills, as well as extending the life of your furnace. If you have questions about maintenance or any heating and cooling needs, please call one of the professionals at Home Comfort Experts.
Home Comfort services the Mishawaka/South Bend areas of Indiana.