Here in Albuquerque, the days are still bright and sunny, but we are looking forward to the brief introduction of autumn that comes with colder evenings. It serves as a reminder that colder weather is on the horizon, which means we’ll need to use our heaters often.
Making sure your house is a warm sanctuary becomes a primary responsibility when the winter cold sets in. It is important it is to have a heating system that runs efficiently. You may switch on your furnace for the first time this year by following the instructions in this tutorial. Depending on the existing system in your house, we will also go over how to switch on your furnace.
By following these simple procedures, you may increase the efficiency of your heating system, which might result in lower energy costs and fewer unplanned breaks throughout the winter.
1. Change the air filter
For the system to remain efficient and the interior air quality to be maintained, the air filter in your furnace is essential. It may accumulate dust and dirt over time, obstructing ventilation. To guarantee enough airflow and avoid overheating, we advise replacing or cleaning your home’s filters on a regular basis—ideally every one to three months. To guarantee adequate heating and ventilation, change the air filter at the beginning of the season.
2. Examine any obstructions
Examine the surroundings of your furnace before turning it on. Make a space free of obstructions around your furnace to start. Clear out any combustible materials, stored goods, or debris. For maximum efficiency and safety, experts advise keeping a minimum clearance of three feet. This will guarantee that the device is properly ventilated!
3. Inspect the thermostat
Verify that your thermostat is operating properly. If it runs on batteries, change the batteries and adjust the temperature to your preferred setting. Consider getting your thermostat repaired or replaced by a professional if you see any problems.
4. Inspect the Carbon Monoxide detector
Next, make sure your carbon monoxide detector is safe! Install and periodically check the batteries in any carbon monoxide detectors placed around the house. This is an important step for everyone with a gas furnace. If left uncontrolled, carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas, may be lethal. To make sure the detector is operating properly, we advise checking it once a month.
Get an expert inspection if you’re still not sure whether your furnace is ready to be switched on. Modern tools are available with them to find gas leaks or carbon monoxide leakage.
5. Let All Vents Open
Verify that every register and vent in your house is open and free of obstructions. Closed vents may cause your HVAC system’s regulated airflow to be disrupted, which will result in your furnace working harder and less effectively.
6. Remove Debris and Dust
During the off-season, dust and debris may gather inside and around your furnace. While the burners, blower, and motor within your furnace should only be cleaned by a professional, you may vacuum the area surrounding the furnace to remove any additional dust that may be floating about in the air.
7. Arrange for Expert Upkeep
For your furnace to operate efficiently and last a long time, regular maintenance is essential. Make an appointment for a yearly heating service with an expert HVAC company in Albuquerque. They can recognize possible problems and act before they worsen.
Bonus Tip: Keep an eye out for odd smells or sounds
Upon activating your heating system, observe the aromas and noises that come from your furnace. Unusual sounds, such rattling or pounding, may be signs of broken or loose parts. Odors that seem strange, such as burning plastic or a musty smell, might indicate that there is a furnace or ducting issue.
Which Heating Unit Do You Own?
Take advantage of this chance to turn on your heat pump or furnace after making sure your heater is ready for action!
- Lighting Your Fireplace: To begin with, examine the thermostat on your furnace, whether it is gas or electric. After adjusting it to a comfortable temperature, turn the furnace on “heat.” For best results, we advise examining your home’s filters and changing them as needed.
- Turning on Heat Pumps: For individuals who have heat pump systems, make sure the thermostat is adjusted to the appropriate temperature. Put your heat pump in “heat” mode if you have been using it for cooling. To preserve efficiency, we advise maintaining the outside unit free of debris.
Stay Warm During the Chilly Evenings
Your furnace or heater keeps your house warm and pleasant as winter approaches. You may shield your home and loved ones from the winter cold by following specific measures designed for your heating system or by implementing basic safeguards to boost the security and operation of your system.
Having a well-maintained furnace is crucial to your safety and comfort in Albuquerque’s winter months. Please don’t hesitate to contact an expert if you need expert furnace maintenance or help with any of the measures.
