Furnace preparation becomes critical as winter approaches, especially in Pennsylvania, where nighttime temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Preparation can help ensure safe and normal function, preventing costly and uncomfortable breakdowns. Coleman Mitchell Heating & Air Conditioning wants you to understand how to prepare for winter and the professional heating services that can keep it operating efficiently.
The Importance of Furnace Preparation
Heaters need maintenance to keep them operating safely. You should seek maintenance services in late summer or early fall, well before turning the furnace on for the winter season.
Neglecting maintenance can increase your safety risks and energy costs. Advanced winter preparation becomes critical to avoid dangerous carbon monoxide leaks if you have a combustion system. Taking the necessary preparation steps now will increase the longevity of your furnace and ensure your family’s comfort.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
The first step to preparing your furnace for winter is to schedule an inspection with a professional HVAC technician. During this inspection, technicians check your heater’s critical components for any signs of wear and tear. Signs of wear and tear may include the following:
- Loose electrical connections
- Frayed or burned wiring
- Warped fan blades
- Cracked heat exchangers
HVAC technicians will identify any repair issues and perform necessary cleaning tasks. These include cleaning the blower and combustion chamber and performing integral testing to check for leaks in the ventilation system and combustion chamber.
Finding underlying issues before starting your furnace for the winter can help you avoid costly breakdowns later. Resolving these issues early in the season protects against ongoing damage that can degrade your system’s lifespan.
A complete heating system inspection gives you peace of mind. You can rest assured your furnace will be safe and ready to operate when temperatures in Bridgeville start dipping lower.
Check Your Furnace’s Air Filters
Depending on your heater, you may need to check, change, or clean multiple filters. Clogged air filters reduce the furnace’s airflow, forcing it to work much harder. Most manufacturers recommend a filter change every one to three months.
You should change standard fiberglass filters every 30 days and high-efficiency filters every 90 days. Homes with pets, smokers, or people with allergies will need frequent changes, usually every one to two months. Coleman Mitchell Heating & Air Conditioning recommends inspecting your filter once a month to check for excess dirt and grime that could block the airflow.
Steps for Changing an Air Filter
Changing an air filter is simple if you follow these steps. First, you must shut off the power to ensure safety. Shutting the unit off while changing the filter prevents dust from blowing into the vents.
Next, you will locate the filter compartment. For the precise location, refer to your owner’s manual. Look for the air handler filter between the return air duct and the blower fan. The filter may be behind a small panel or door.
Some systems have an air return vent. This large vent with a filter pulls air into the system to heat it.
Take note of the filter’s position and the airflow arrows printed on the filter frame; you must install the new filter correctly to ensure proper airflow position.
Mark the replacement date on your calendar to prepare for the next filter change. Keeping accurate maintenance records can also help your HVAC technician during service appointments.
Check and Calibrate the Thermostat
Early fall is an excellent time to replace your thermostat batteries to ensure proper function. You also need to seek professional testing and calibration. Testing ensures your thermostat operates safely and effectively.
Uncalibrated thermostats cause furnaces to work harder, increasing wear and tear and electricity costs and decreasing the lifespan. Thermostat calibration can save you money on heating costs and ensure greater comfort in the winter. Technicians use specialized equipment to ensure proper temperature function and make necessary adjustments to the thermostat.
Inspect Ductwork and Vents
Winter preparation also involves ductwork and vent inspections to ensure no obstructions or damage could prevent proper airflow. If the technician finds any obstruction or damage, they will carry out repairs. They will also recommend a professional ductwork cleaning service if they notice substantial dust and debris.
You can inspect your supply and return vents to ensure they are free of obstructions from furniture or other items. These steps will help ensure efficient airflow, so your home has consistent heating in every room.
Evaluate Heat Exchanger
The heat exchanger is a critical furnace component that transfers heat from the burner or element to your home. During a professional inspection, technicians will check the heat exchanger for signs of damage. Overheating is one of the most common issues that damage these components.
One sign of heat exchanger damage is white soot around the burners. There may also be corrosion and cracks. Technicians must replace a cracked heat exchanger before you can operate your heater. Assessing the heat exchanger now can help you avoid deadly dangers later.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Gas-fueled furnaces require proper ventilation to operate safely and prevent carbon monoxide buildups inside your home. It’s essential to inspect the vents leading outside. You must confirm these areas are free of snow and ice that can block system ventilation. It’s also necessary to look for signs of corrosion and other damage. Repair technicians will need to repair any vent issues before winter.
Check and Clean the Flame Sensor
Another critical component is the flame sensor. It requires regular safety inspections and cleanings. Over time, soot and dust can cover the flame sensor, interfering with its ability to detect the flame properly. In addition to cleaning, technicians need to test the sensor to ensure proper working order.
Lubricate Moving Parts
HVAC technicians will also need to lubricate the moving parts in older furnaces to help prevent increased wear and tear that can occur with age. They apply lubrication to the motor blower assembly ports. Technicians will also lubricate the following:
- Blower motor bearings
- Blower fan shaft
- Damper motors
- Fan belt pulleys
Each of the above components is crucial to your heater’s function. Lubrication reduces friction, ensures proper operation, and protects longevity. This maintenance chore can also increase your furnace’s efficiency.
Furnace Preparation Optimizes Performance
A well-prepared heater ensures even and effective heating, so you do not experience issues with some rooms being colder. Preparation also ensures your furnace is safe to operate during the winter and does not need a replacement. Technicians can help you spot minor furnace repair issues before they cause significant concerns and expensive repairs.
Contact Us Today
Coleman Mitchell Heating & Air Conditioning is a full-service heating and cooling company located in Bridgeville, PA, proudly serving our neighbors for over 30 years. We offer installation, maintenance, and repair services for all types of heating units and air conditioners, including ductless HVAC systems.
Our indoor air quality services include testing and filtration solutions. We also offer 24/7 emergency repair services for your furnace or air conditioner. Call our expert HVAC technicians at Coleman Mitchell Heating & Air Conditioning for heater maintenance services. Let us help you prepare your furnace for winter in Pennsylvania.
