Avoid the Need for Emergency Furnace Repair in NJ by Preparing Now

Murphy’s law tells us that your furnace, if ill prepared, will break down on the coldest day of winter. In order to safely and efficiently operate your furnace you need to make sure that regular maintenance and periodic checkups are done by a licensed heating professional. Below are some easy steps that you can perform as well as a few things which are good to ask your contractor to do in order to keep your furnace running all winter long. While these steps will help keep your system running well, if something does go wrong our skilled technicians can assist you with furnace repair in NJ.

7 Ways to Make Sure Your Furnace is Emergency Proof This Winter

Clean or Replace the Filter
If your furnace filter is clogged, it will restrict the flow of air from your furnace. This doesn’t only cause it to deliver less heat, it also causes it to work harder adding more wear and tear and increasing your bills. Depending on what type of filter you use you will want to replace the filter every three months to a year.

Check the Blower Belt and Oil the Blower Motor
The blower belt can be the difference between a warm house in the winter and a broken down furnace. If the belt is cracked, frayed, or broken replace it immediately as this will cause a broken down furnace. Loose belts can also cause an increase in the furnace operating time so it is important to check the belt before the winter. If your blower motor is sealed this next bit doesn’t apply. Adding two or three drops of oil to the blower motor is a good practice and will keep your motor running efficiently for longer.

Make Sure the Blower Doors are Replaced Properly
Having this done will make sure that any combustion byproducts (like carbon monoxide) are separated from the warm air in your home.

Check that All Vents in the House are Not Obstructed
This is an easy one. All you need to do is make sure that the hot air from the furnace will circulate freely through the home. This means making sure that your vents are free of obstructions like boxes, toys, furniture, etc.

Call a Professional for an Inspection
Even the best preparation and maintenance on your part will not replace the need for a professional’s inspection. If you want to make sure your furnace is in proper running order and won’t break down in the winter calling a professional is a must.

Check the Outside Vent
Similar to the inside vents you want to make sure the exterior vent and exhaust is clear of any obstructions and in good condition.

Remove Any Objects From Around Your Furnace
It is important to make sure that the floor and area around your furnace is free of any boxes, clothes, paints, aerosols, chemicals, gasoline, and any other obstructions or flammable objects. Not only do these pose a safety risk, they restrict the ability of your furnace to have the air it needs around it when working.

It’s easy to overlook regular furnace maintenance with everything else you have to do to get your home ready for fall, but taking a few minutes to check your system can help you avoid trouble. The best way to prevent a cold weather breakdown and a chilly, uncomfortable home is to prep your furnace now. We’re here for you if you need help getting ready for the long, cold months ahead; contact us for help inspecting and maintaining your furnace, or if you discover a problem that needs to be fixed before winter arrives.