The last thing you want to deal with when the temperatures start to drop in the winter is a broken heater. During this time, we tend to rely on our heaters to keep us warm. Therefore, you need to maintain it in good condition to serve you through the colder months of the year. Learning a few tips about your heater and being perceptive about energy use could help save some money without sacrificing your comfort. This article discusses some of the best practices to keep your heater working properly.
- Replace Your Filters
It is important to replace your air filters often if you want your heating system to operate efficiently. The average period to replace the filters in your heater should be after every three months. However, you need to inspect them at least once a month to determine their current condition.
Unlike other complicated tasks that require a technician, replacing air filters in a heating system is something you can do yourself provided you have the manual. Not only does this make your heating system more efficient, but also improves the air quality in your home.
- Eliminate Dust and Debris
It is crucial to keep internal vents and the outside unit free from dust and debris. The vents that send hot air into every room could be clogged with pet hair, or other dirt and dust. Your heater will not work efficiently if the vents are blocked, which could put a lot of stress on the system and cause damage. Do not forget to check the outside unit as it needs to be cleaned too. Check for any leaves or accumulated snow during winter that could be blocking the unit’s fan from the outside.
- Get a Programmable Thermostat
A thermostat helps you to see if your heating system is working properly as it should. It not only helps maintain your heater but can also save you money on utility bills. A programmable thermostat makes it easier to set up different temperatures automatically throughout the day. This ensures that your heater does not overwork in rooms that are not being used or when you are not at home. If you turn up your thermostat and do not hear the unit clicking or the air getting warmer, it is best to contact your heating maintenance company to check the issue.
- Remove Nearby Objects
You need to get rid of any objects near your heating system before you turn it on. This could be things like storage containers, furniture, boxes, and other items in your house. The heat that comes into direct contact with these items could cause damage and increase the potential risk of fire. The vents in every room should be kept free from tall objects that could be obstructing the airflow. As a result, your heater will not have to push air harder through the vents, thus increasing its lifespan and efficiency.
- Avoid Overworking The System
Reducing the amount of heating and cooling costs is one of the most effective ways of keeping your heating system in good condition. To ensure your heater does not work harder than it is supposed to; inspect your home for leaks around the windows and doors. Proper window insulation can prevent cold air from getting in and warm air from getting out. As a result, you will save more on utility costs because your heating unit will not be working round the clock to compensate for cold air from outside. Make sure to seal your doorframes with a simple foam strip as it goes a long way to save heating costs.
- Schedule Preventative Maintenance Inspection
Regardless of how much maintenance you can perform yourself, it is also a good idea to have your heating unit inspected by an HVAC professional. Many other things might seem fine from the outside but there could be a growing issue lingering on the inside. A professional checkup can help detect problems before they get worse. Even if you are a DIY enthusiast, the best time to schedule for a professional inspection of your heating unit could be right before the winter when it will be needed most.
A heating system that works properly keeps your home nice and cozy when the cold weather sets in. While there are many things that you can do yourself to maintain a heater, it is also important to involve the help of a professional when inspecting your unit as they can help solve problems that you never saw coming. Regular maintenance prevents many potential problems with your heating system that could arise during winter.