3 Things To Check When Prepping Your Furnace For Winter
If there is one appliance in your home that you count on during the winter months, it's your furnace. The last thing you want is for your furnace to malfunction when outdoor temperatures are dropping below freezing.
Proper preparation is key when it comes to guaranteeing the performance of your furnace this winter. With cold weather right around the corner, be sure that you are taking a look at these important elements to prepare your furnace for winter residential heating demands.
1. Check Fuel Lines for Leaks
A leak in your furnace's fuel line could be deadly. Natural gas has the potential to generate carbon monoxide. Exposure to carbon monoxide can lead to serious illness, and even death if concentrations are high enough. You should install a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace fuel lines and ensure that the detector is working properly.
You can check for leaks by coating the exterior of the fuel lines with some soapy water. If you spot the formation of new bubbles, these are areas where the fuel line is leaking. An experienced HVAC professional should be contacted immediately to make repairs so that your furnace can run safely and efficiently this winter.
2. Check for Clogged Air Filters
Many homeowners don't remember to check the air filters in their heating and cooling systems often enough. A dirty air filter can limit the intake or air used for heating your home. A limited supply of fresh air can cause your furnace to work harder than necessary to generate enough heat for your home.
Your furnace may experience efficiency problems or breakdown completely before its expected lifespan has elapsed when a dirty air filter isn't addressed. Check the filter before starting your furnace up for winter, and check the filter often throughout the winter months. Replace dirty filters immediately to protect your heating system.
3. Check Moving Parts
A modern furnace has many moving components that work together to push heated air through your home. These moving components must be cared for properly to avoid any performance problems during the winter months.
Check all moving parts for signs of dirt and debris. Use a wet/dry vacuum to eliminate dirt and debris, then lubricate all moving parts with an approved lubricant.
Your HVAC technician can direct you to a lubricant that will be compatible with your heating system. Maintaining moving parts allows your furnace to run as efficiently as possible when generating heat for your home.
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