Preparing to Use Your Furnace This Winter

November 10, 2016

Winter is close, and soon you'll need to put your gas furnace back in service for the season. Before you do, there are several tasks you should finish to make sure your heating system is ready to keep you warm while working safely and reliably.

  • Call for maintenance: Fall preventive maintenance helps ensure your furnace will work properly through the winter. Call your local trusted HVAC professional to schedule a maintenance appointment. Your HVAC expert should give the system a thorough inspection from end to end. Other maintenance tasks should include checking the ventilation system, checking the motors and belts, testing the thermostat, changing air filters, and making minor repairs and adjustments.
  • Clear vents: Open air vents where warm air comes out and ensure that there is nothing on the vents blocking air flow. Remove items such as boxes, furniture, clothing, or other objects that could keep warm air from getting into your home.
  • Clean registers and vents: Take the time to clean registers and vents connected to your heating system. If there is dust, dirt, or other debris on them, this material could be blown into your home when the furnace is first turned on for the season.
  • Clear area around furnace: Remove objects in the area and make sure there is plenty of clear space around the furnace. This ensures there is enough available air flow around the furnace. It also makes it easier for maintenance or repair personnel to get to the furnace to do their jobs.
  • Test carbon monoxide detectors: Check and test your carbon monoxide detectors before turning your gas furnace on. A gas furnace will produce carbon monoxide (CO), an extremely dangerous gas that humans can't detect. CO detectors are necessary to let you know if any of this gas has leaked into your home, giving you time to leave the house and call for help.

Lozier Heating and Cooling has been working in the HVAC industry for more than 100 years, serving customers in Des Moines and the surrounding areas. Contact us today for more information on getting your furnace ready for winter.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Des Moines, Iowa area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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