It is recommended that the thermostat in your household be set to 68 degrees, which sounds alright for the summer. However, in the winter you might find yourself turning up the heat to keep your house warm and comfortable. Which is just fine- most people are in the same boat when the temperatures drop. 

Although, it is important to make sure that before you change from air conditioning to heating, your system is in good shape. Heater maintenance can ensure you have a functioning source of warmth. Here are the top 5 most important heater maintenance tips:

1. Check your Thermostat

Don’t just look at your thermostat to make sure it is working properly- put it to the test. 

Turn your thermostat up a few degrees from what it is currently set at. In a few moments, you should hear your heater turn on, and soon after feel the warmth. If these steps occur, then your thermostat is working like it should. Doing this twice a year will make sure that everything is in place.

2. Replace Filters

You should make sure your air filters are routinely being changed. Once they become filled with dust and debris, it will be hard for your heater to pump out air efficiently.

A clogged air filter will also reduce your air quality since it circulates these particles in your home.

It is important to check your filters monthly and change them out around every 90 days. Make sure to follow the instructions on the filter’s packaging and dont go over the recommended lifespan (the max amount of time to use your filter without damage or delay in heating). 

3. Clean the Outside Unit

Your heater isn’t just working from inside your home, but it is using air from outside, heating it up, and pumping it back into your home. To be sure that it is working efficiently, cleaning the outside of your unit is just as important. Get rid of any debris that sticks to it and stalls air intake. 

Especially during the winter time when it snows, shovel the  precipitation away from your heater so it can continue to breath. 

4. Dusting and Unblock your Vents

Heat won’t be able to come out of your vents if they are blocked and having built up hot air in your vents will cause stress and harm on your furnace. So make sure every vent in your home is open and clear. Clear any blockages like dust, pet hair  or debris to allow the heat to move freely and cleanly in your home. 

5. Fill Up Any Cracks or Holes

You never want to s=work your heater into overtime. However, if hot air keeps escaping through holes and cracks, windows and doors, your heater might have o work more than it needs to.  Inspect your home (especially in rooms that get very chilly in the winter).

Can you caulk any gaps? Are you able to cover drafty windows with a layer of plastic? These things will help to retain heat in your home and lessen the load on your furnace. 

Turn Heater Maintenance into a Pre-Winter Ritual

Your furnace might not work properly throughout the winter without proper maintenance. Following this list will help you navigate what your heating system needs to be working in top shape. Feel free to contact Alliance Energy Source with any HVAC needs.