How to Prepare Your Furnace This Winter
As winter approaches in Calgary, the last thing you want is to be left in the cold due to a malfunctioning furnace. Your furnace is the heart of your home's heating system, and it requires proper care and maintenance to ensure it operates efficiently throughout the chilly months. Keep in mind the colder months ahead with these essential steps to prepare your furnace for winter and avoid the inconvenience and expense of furnace repair in Calgary.
Importance of Winter Furnace Preparation
Before we dive into the steps, let's understand why it's crucial to prepare your furnace for winter:
Efficiency: A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, saving you money on heating bills.
Reliability: Preventative maintenance reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns, ensuring your home stays warm when needed.
Safety: Proper furnace maintenance enhances safety by minimizing the risk of carbon monoxide leaks and other hazards.
Avoid Furnace Repair in Calgary: Ways to Prepare For Winter
Preparing your furnace for winter can help ensure that it runs efficiently and effectively throughout the colder months. Here are some tips to prepare your furnace for winter:
Tip #1: Change the Air Filters
Dirty air filters can restrict airflow and reduce the efficiency of your furnace. Change your air filters regularly, ideally every 1-3 months, to keep your furnace running smoothly.
Tip #2: Schedule a Furnace Cleaning
Schedule a furnace cleaning with a professional technician to ensure your furnace runs safely and efficiently. It should be done early, before the winter months, so that you can address issues sooner than later.
Tip #3: Check & Oil the Blower
The blower is responsible for circulating air throughout your home. Check and oil the blower to ensure that it is running smoothly. To check a furnace blower, turn off its power and let it cool. Access the blower compartment, inspect it for damage and unusual sounds, and clean out debris. Test the blower motor and airflow during a heating cycle.
Tip #4: Clear Furnace Flue & Surrounding Clutter
A furnace flue is a vital component of a heating system that serves as a conduit for safely removing combustion gases and byproducts produced during the heating process. Ensuring the flue is clear to prevent blockages and cleaning any debris or clutter around your furnace is recommended.
Tip #5: Make Adjustments to Your Thermostat
Turn on your thermostat and set it to "heat" to ensure your furnace works properly. Also, check and change the batteries in your thermostat if needed, and reprogram it for the winter season. Additionally, a programmable thermostat can help you save energy and money by automatically adjusting the temperature when you are away from home or asleep.
Tip #6: Ensure Your Intake Pipe is Clear
To ensure your furnace's intake pipe is clear:
Visually inspect it for obstructions like debris or ice buildup.
Regularly check for any signs of blockage or damage, ensuring the pipe has proper airflow.
Keep the surrounding area clean and clear to maintain efficient air intake for your furnace, preventing potential issues.
See If You Need Furnace Repair in Calgary Now Before Winter Hits
Preparing your furnace for winter is a proactive approach to ensure your home remains warm, comfortable, and safe throughout the cold months. Regular maintenance and inspections, along with professional furnace repair in Calgary when needed, will help extend the lifespan of your furnace and provide you with peace of mind during the winter season. Don't wait until the mercury drops to address furnace issues; take these steps to stay cozy all winter.
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