The school year has started and the weather is cooling. Fall is upon us and winter is right around the corner, and before you know it the nights will get cold. With every season there are certain tasks you should perform to ensure a safe and comfortable home. Fall is just the same. These little tasks will make sure your furnace is ready for the cold weather and the winter season ahead.
Schedule Professional Furnace Maintenance
Do not wait until your HVAC system breaks down to have it repaired. Before the cold winter nights set in you want to call your HVAC professional to come and perform your annual furnace inspection and maintenance. Without the yearly cleaning and service your system will wear out fast, break down, or possibly start pumping harmful carbon monoxide throughout your home. The older your HVAC system is, the more important these routine services become.
What is included in an Annual Heating Tune-Up?
A professional cleaning and inspection should take anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes. Here is a generic list of checks your heating and cooling contractor should perform:
- Check the vent system for blocks or leakage
- Test the thermostat for proper function
- Analyze combustion gasses
- Check the seal on the blower access door
- Inspect fresh air intake grilles and louvers for blockages
- Inspect the heat exchanger for proper ignition, burner flame, and flame sense
- Check drainage system for leaks or blockages including hoses, condensate drain, and trap
- Inspect the blower wheel for dirt and debris, cleaning if necessary
- Conduct an amp-draw test on the motor
- Check the wiring for corrosion and damage
- Check all air filters
Clean or Change your Air Filters
This is something you should be doing every 30 days during times of high usage. And never wait more than 90 days to swap out your air filters. This simple task will improve airflow, increase energy efficiency, and help prolong the life of your HVAC system.
Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector
A carbon monoxide leak is one of the biggest dangers of a failing heating system. Be sure to protect yourself and your loved ones by installing these detectors in all major areas of your home. Also, take the time to test your smoke and CO detectors every 30 days for proper operation and swap out the batteries as necessary.
Clear the Space around Your Furnace
Over the summer months, clutter may have accumulated in your furnace room, especially if it is close to your storage. You need to keep the area around your furnace obstruction-free. Teach your children not to play in these rooms or leave anything close to the furnace. Anything flammable within three feet of the unit is a risk. Never store items like gas, paint, glue, or other chemicals anywhere near your furnace. For proper safety, you also want to make sure there is nothing combustible within six inches of the vent pipe.
If you are ready for your annual HVAC inspection and service, call Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning at (669) 219-8957. Our technicians take great pride in their work and will always complete tasks with professionalism, enthusiasm, and thoroughness. Or more information stop by our office at 1045 N 10th St., San Jose, CA 95112.
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