As winter comes to a close and spring approaches, it’s time for homeowners to start thinking about furnace maintenance in Downriver Michigan. Clearing any debris from the unit, changing the filter and checking all the wiring are all important steps in ensuring your furnace is in good condition before using it again in the fall. If you find any problems, be sure to address them before using your furnace again in the future.
Tips for Spring Furnace Maintenance in Downriver Michigan
Here at Superior Comfort HVAC we offer regular maintenance to keep your home’s heating and cooling system in good working order. If you have questions or other needs that you think may need attention with your furnace be sure to give us a call for service.
Here are a few tips to help you with spring furnace maintenance:
Clear any debris from the unit
Debris can build up over time and eventually cause problems with your furnace. Be sure to clear away any leaves, dirt or other objects that may have gathered around your unit. Making sure the area around your furnace is clear will help keep it running smoothly.
Check Vents and Registers
Make sure all your home vents and registers are open and not blocked in any way. Blocked vents can prevent your furnace from working properly and cause increased energy costs. Many times rugs and furniture can be moved on top of vents and block them. Pets can also lay on return vents which can collect pet hair and cause air filters to clog up quickly.
Check the Batteries in the Thermostat
Some thermostats operate on batteries that need to be changed regularly. Typically, changing the batteries in your thermostat and smoke detectors can be done at the same time. Not all thermostats have batteries so be sure to check with your furnace documentation to determine if your unit has a battery operated thermostat. Even if your thermostat does not have batteries it’s also a good idea to ensure dust and debris has not collected around the thermostat which can affect air flow for the thermostat.
Check the Carbon Monoxide Detector in Your Home
While you’re checking the batteries in your thermostat, it’s also a good time to check the carbon monoxide detector in your home. Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas that can be harmful if inhaled. If your carbon monoxide detector is more than five years old, it’s time to replace it. Like a smoke detector, a working carbon monoxide detector can save your life and should be checked regularly.
Change the Air Filter
A dirty filter can impede airflow and cause your furnace to work harder than necessary. Changing the filter is an easy way to improve your furnace’s performance. Check your furnace’s documentation to see how often the filter should be changed and which is recommended for your furnace.
Check all the Wiring
Make sure all the wiring is in good condition and that there are no exposed wires. If you find any problems, address them immediately. Failing to do so could result in a fire or other serious hazard. If there are problems that are apparent it’s best to always call a qualified HVAC technician to change or replace wiring or components. You should also never open any electrical panels on the furnace as it can be extremely dangerous.
Get a Routine Inspection of your Home’s Furnace by a Qualified HVAC Contractor
A routine inspection by a qualified HVAC contractor is the best way to ensure your furnace is in good condition and working properly. During an inspection, the contractor will check all the components of your furnace and make any necessary repairs or replacements. They will also clean the furnace and change the filter. Having a regular inspection can help you avoid costly repairs in the future. These are just a few tips to help you with spring furnace maintenance. Be sure to consult your furnace’s documentation for more specific instructions on how to clean and maintain your unit. And, if you have any questions, always call a qualified HVAC technician.
At Superior Comfort Heating and Cooling we offer full HVAC service including furnace maintenance. Give us a call today to schedule your furnace inspection and service at (734) 818-7141.