8-step checklist: keep your furnace running with regular maintenance

CHECK YOUR FURNACE BEFORE YOU TURN IT ON

When winter weather hits, it’s your furnace’s time to shine. But heating your home isn’t as simple as going to the thermostat and switching the heat to ON. If you want your furnace to last another year and give you as few problems as possible throughout the winter months, make sure you’re keeping up with furnace maintenance. Some of these things you can do yourself, while others are best left to the professionals at EcoEdge.

8 THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU TURN YOUR FURNACE ON FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS WINTER

1. CHANGE YOUR AIR FILTERS

This step is even more important if you have pets, children, or allergies. A clean filter will catch fur, dust and other particles and improve the air quality in your home while also ensuring your furnace isn’t having to work too hard to maintain good airflow.

2. CLEAN THE BURNERS

Dust can accumulate on your furnace’s burners when it’s not in use, so make sure to give these a quick cleaning before you turn your furnace on for the first time in a while. Otherwise, you might notice a burning smell throughout your house.

3. INSPECT AND LUBRICATE THE BLOWER

After sitting unused for months, parts of your furnace might need some extra attention to keep it operating smoothly. Make sure to oil the blower yearly to keep it working as efficiently as possible. If you notice it making a strange noise, call a professional immediately.

4. UNCOVER THE HEATING VENTS

Before you turn your furnace on, make sure none of the heating vents are obstructed. A blocked vent could not only prevent your furnace from heating your home effectively, but it could also pose a fire hazard.

5. CLEAR THE CHIMNEY AND OTHER EXHAUST VENTS

Your furnace will either connect to your chimney or have its own vent in a sidewall. Before turning the furnace on, make sure both of these things are clear of debris and any animals that might have built their nests in the space. If your furnace vents through your chimney, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to have a professional cleaning done.

6. TEST YOUR SAFETY MEASURES

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are a must. Make sure one of each is positioned close to the furnace in case of a fire or carbon monoxide leak. The sooner the danger is detected, the faster you can get to safety and call for help.

7. PAY ATTENTION TO ODD SMELLS AND NOISES

Some odd smells and noises immediately after starting up are normal. If you didn’t clean the burners, you might notice a faint burning smell, but it’s usually just dust burning off. However, if the smell is very strong or if it persists, turn the furnace off and call EcoEdge immediately. The same goes for any odd or persistent mechanical noises. You might have a problem that needs professional intervention.

8. HIRE A PROFESSIONAL TECHNICIAN FROM ECOEDGE

Professional maintenance is irreplaceable. It can help you catch problems before they turn into big issues and extend the life of your furnace. In the long run, paying for routine maintenance can help you save big.

CALL ECOEDGE TO SCHEDULE YOUR PROFESSIONAL FURNACE MAINTENANCE TODAY.

Make sure your furnace is in good condition and operating at maximum efficiency. A pro from EcoEdge can run through the maintenance program with you and help ensure your furnace is set up to keep your house warm for years to come. Schedule your furnace maintenance service today.