How to Get Your Furnace Ready for the Winter

The leaves are changing color, and the nights are getting colder, so it is time to switch your HVAC system to heat. Winter is just around the corner, but before you start using your heater, you’ll want to make sure that it’s in good condition.

Winter is just around the corner, and it is almost time to turn on your heater! But before you do, it is important to check your furnace to ensure it is properly working. We have put together a list to ensure your heater keeps you warm all winter long:

Check the Thermostat

Test your thermostat to ensure the air is properly conditioned to the set temperature. When doing this, you should hear the unit kick on in a minute or two after changing the temperature. If you do not hear this, ensure the wires are securely connected to the back of the thermostat and in the right connections. Still nothing? Make sure you contact a local HVAC technician to come take a look.

Change the Air Filters

It is important to regularly check the condition of your furnace’s filter. If the filters have not been changed for a long time, we recommend changing them before the winter begins. If you have a permanent electrostatic filter, you can simply wash and reuse it. Cleaning or replacing your filters will help prolong the life of your HVAC system. If your HVAC system has a humidifier filter, we also recommend changing this and setting the humidistat.

Clean the Heat Exchanger

A heat exchanger is a compressor that generates heat by compressing refrigerant. This heat is then captured and used for heating domestic water. The heat exchanger should be brushed and vacuumed out annually by a trained professional while the unit is deactivated. A professional can check to see if the heat exchanger has any cracks since this could lead to a dangerous carbon monoxide leak in your home.

Clean the Blower Motor

Some blower motors need lubrication as part of the yearly maintenance. Always check your owner’s manual to ensure that your blower motor requires lubrication. If it does, make sure the power is safely turned off before cleaning the caps covering the bearings.

Test the Igniter Switch

Older systems might require you to relight the pilot of an igniter. However, newer systems have electronic ignitors—if you push the reset button and it is not working, contact a professional.

Inspect the Chimney & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Chimneys commonly have carbon buildup or even bird nests and debris. Check for a significant dust buildup in the furnace chimney because it is a dangerous fire hazard. If your furnace chimney has not been inspected in a long time, consider calling a professional to inspect and clean it.

Call our HVAC Furnace Technicians at JD Service Now

At JD Service Now, we take all necessary precautions to keep our customers safe and comfortable in their own homes. Whether you have plumbing, heating, air conditioning or sewer issues, JD Service Now is available to help with it all. Our technicians are some of the most qualified in the Durham area and always get the job done right the first time. If you need to get your annual furnace maintenance, call us today!

Contact our heating service professionals today if you need your furnace repaired or replaced. We can inspect your furnace to ensure it is in working condition for the winter: 919-383-7000!