When it comes to keeping your indoor space warm during the cold months, your furnace and heating system play a crucial role. It’s essential to keep these systems in optimal condition to avoid breakdowns and hefty repair costs. Here are some key DIY tips to help you maintain your furnace and heating system.
1. Regularly Clean and Replace the Filters
Never underestimate the importance of clean filters in your heating system. Dirty filters can hamper the efficiency of your furnace and also damage it in the long run. Check your filters regularly, clean them if they are reusable, or replace them every three months. If you often forget when to change your filters, consider setting a reminder on your phone or calendar.
2. Maintain the Exterior of Your Furnace
The exterior of your furnace can collect dust and block the air flow. Wipe it down with a damp cloth regularly. Be sure to switch off the furnace first to avoid any risks. Also, keep the area surrounding the furnace clear to promote efficient air circulation.
3. Schedule Regular Furnace Service
While DIY maintenance can help ensure smooth operation, it’s vital to have your furnace professionally serviced at least once a year. This ensures a thorough inspection and cleaning of areas you might miss. Plus, any issues can be flagged and resolved before they escalate into severe problems.
4. Regularly Check the Thermostat
The thermostat controls your heating system. Ensure it’s functioning correctly by testing it now and then. If your home isn’t heating properly despite a high thermostat setting, it might require recalibration or replacement.
5. Consider Furnace Replacement
No matter how diligent you are with maintenance, every furnace reaches a point where it’s more cost-effective to replace it than continue with repairs. If your unit is over 15 years old, frequently breaks down, and causes higher energy bills, it might be time for a furnace replacement.
6. Promptly Deal With Unusual Noises
If your heating system starts making unexpected sounds — high-pitched whines, scraping, or banging — don’t ignore them. Such noises could indicate problems ranging from minor issues to serious faults. Consult with a professional heating service for a proper diagnosis and solution.
Remember, while it’s good to have these DIY tips at your fingertips, there are times when calling in the experts is the best option. A dependable company like Stegall Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical offers quality furnace repair and heating services in Birmingham, AL, Helena, AL, Vestavia, AL, Mountain Brook, AL, Hoover, AL & Homewood, AL to keep your home comfortable throughout the year.