As winter gets closer, getting your home ready for the colder temperatures to come is a top priority. One of the best ways to achieve this is by preparing your heating system for the months ahead.
A well-maintained heating system guarantees efficient performance and avoids costly breakdowns. Regular upkeep keeps your home safe, protecting you from hazards like carbon monoxide leaks and furnace fires.
The earlier you get your HVAC system inspection, the readier you’ll be for winter in Tacoma Seattle area. Here’s a look at some ways you can prepare your heating system for winter and keep your furnace, boiler, or HVAC system in top shape.
Furnace Tune-Up
A proper furnace tune-up keeps your home warm and your system running efficiently throughout the winter.
One of the first steps is to check and replace the air filter. Dirty filters restrict airflow, causing your furnace to work harder, which reduces efficiency and lowers air quality.
Next, you’ll want to inspect the burners and ignition system. Over time, dirt can accumulate on the burners, reducing their ability to heat the unit. A faulty ignition can also lead to frequent breakdowns or prevent the furnace from starting altogether.
Remember to test the thermostat, too. A functioning thermostat helps you control the temperature inside your home, improving comfort and reducing energy waste.
You’ll also want to lubricate moving parts inside your furnace, such as the motor and fan. This step reduces friction and wear, preventing mechanical issues and extending the life of your furnace.
Of course, bringing in a professional to assist with this job is highly recommended because it ensures everything is done correctly and you have nothing to worry about when cold temperatures hit.
Boiler Inspection
If you heat your home or business with a boiler, a thorough inspection can ensure you have reliable heating during winter.
You’ll start by checking the water levels. Low water levels can overheat the boiler and damage its internal components, potentially causing costly repairs or system failure.
Next, you can look at the pressure and temperature settings. Boilers must maintain the correct pressure and temperature for safe operation. If these settings are too high or too low, it can impact performance, raise energy bills, or pose safety risks.
Looking for leaks is also a good idea. Leaks waste your water and can damage your home. They also reduce the system’s efficiency, making the boiler work harder than necessary.
Finally, the ventilation and flue system needs some attention. The flue releases harmful gases, like carbon monoxide, safely outside. Blockages can lead to dangerous gas buildup, so have a professional inspect your system and keep it clean.
HVAC System Checkup
It’s better to be safe than sorry, so a complete HVAC checkup is advisable before winter.
You’ll start by cleaning the ductwork and vents. Dust, debris, or blockages in the ducts can restrict airflow, making your system work harder and lowering its efficiency.
Next, inspect the heat exchanger for cracks. Cracks in the heat exchanger can create dangerous carbon monoxide leaks and serious health risks. Regular inspections identify these issues before they become a hazard.
Take the time to check the fan motors and belts. These components help circulate warm air throughout your home. If they’re worn or damaged, they can fail. Making sure everything is running smoothly can prevent breakdowns this winter.
Finally, check the insulation around your ducts. Well-insulated ducts help keep the warm air flowing throughout your home, preventing heat loss and improving overall energy savings.
Your HVAC contractor can handle these jobs, giving you one less thing to worry about as winter gets closer.
Get a Pre-Winter Checkup From Hunt’s Services
With winter fast approaching, you don’t want to wait until the last minute to check your heating system. You need your HVAC system to fire right up and run efficiently before cold weather hits, as going even a night or two without a working furnace can be incredibly challenging.
For that reason, Hunt’s Services is proud to announce our pre-winter heating system checkup promotion. Call Hunt’s Services at 253-533-7500 for more information on this and other deals we have in store for your customers in Seattle, Tacoma, and other locations throughout King, Pierce, and Thurston counties.