Learning About HVAC Contractor Services

When summer winds down, it's time to make preparations for winter. One important thing you want to check is your heating system. By having maintenance done before the weather turns cold, your furnace runs better and has a better chance of making it through the winter without breaking down. Here are some ways to prepare your heating system for another season of cold weather.

Have Your Furnace Cleaned And Serviced

If your furnace isn't already under contract and scheduled to be serviced in the fall, call an HVAC company to get your furnace ready for operation. This usually entails cleaning the parts, checking the system for damage, and making repairs as needed.

It's common for an air conditioner and furnace to share the same air handler. If the air handler has been working all summer to blow cool air, it may be dusty and need to be cleaned and serviced. So, even though you haven't used your furnace in months, it could still be dirty inside and need to be cleaned.

Inspect The Gas Supply And Exhaust

If you have a gas furnace, the furnace technician will probably check the gas supply, ignition area of the furnace, and exhaust. Gas and electric furnaces differ, and each has their unique maintenance needs.

However, if something goes wrong with a gas furnace, carbon monoxide or soot can be a hazard, so it's important to make sure the gas supply and exhaust are working properly. This is also a good time to test the carbon monoxide monitor near your furnace and replace the batteries.

Test The Thermostat

The heating repair service will probably check your thermostat to make sure it doesn't need any repairs. This could involve calibrating it too. If your thermostat isn't accurate or if it has loose wiring, the problem could affect your furnace at an inconvenient time. Keeping the thermostat in good shape through regular testing and cleaning is as important as keeping your furnace in good shape.

Check The Ducts For Leaks

You don't want warm air leaking out in a cold attic, so check your ducts for leaks and other problems. If your AC wasn't performing well toward the end of the summer, the problem might be leaky ducts that you'll want to repair. You might be able to fix a leaky duct yourself by patching the hole or seam.

When your heating system is cleaned and serviced, it's ready for a long winter. However, your heating system will be more efficient if you improve your home insulation too. This might involve adding weatherstripping around windows and putting caulk in gaps that allow heat to escape. Reach out to a heating professional for more information.