3 Steps to Take Before Turning on the Furnace
3 Steps to Take Before Turning on the Furnace
As temperatures start to drop, you’ll be turning on your furnace for the first time this season. However, before flipping the switch here are few simple steps that help you ensure the equipment will work safely and efficiently this winter.
What to Do Before Turning on Your Furnace
1. Clean Around the Unit
Furnaces require sufficient airflow to move warm air throughout homes. Many
furnaces are located in basements and other tight areas that may accumulate a lot of boxes and debris throughout the summer (At least for us
😊
). Remove items that are blocking the
furnace and then vacuum around the unit.
2. Test Safety Detectors
Most
furnaces use gas and combustion to heat air. This creates carbon monoxide gas, which should be safely redirected out of your home if the connections are tight and functioning properly.
Furnaces can also create excessive heat that could present fire risks if there are any combustible items nearby. Clear flammable materials from the room, such as paint and gasoline, and make sure your smoke and CO2 detectors have batteries and are working properly
3. Check Filters & Vents
Your ventilation system should have a filter to catch dust and other solids circulating your home. Changing from cooling to
heating is the perfect reminder to check this part and change it if necessary. However, you should continue to check it about once a month through the rest of the year. About 20% of service calls could be avoided if the filters were changed regularly.
Additionally, go through each room in your home and make sure the vents are open and unobstructed by furniture, so warm air can easily circulate.
