by Cooper Climate Control
0
The cold weather is coming – are you getting your furnace ready? In addition to scheduling a furnace inspection with Cooper Climate Control Heating & Air Conditioning, there are a number of other things you can do to make sure your heating system is in tip-top shape before the weather turns cold.
How to Turn On Your Furnace
Turning on your furnace is simple. Since everything is controlled by your thermostat, all you need to do is flip the switch from COOL (or OFF) to HEAT. This will automatically switch your furnace on and your AC off.
How to Change Your Furnace Air Filter
You should have a door on the front of your furnace – open it, and you should find your furnace filter. Make sure you’re changing your filter every month while your furnace is running to maximize airflow and minimize the risk of damage to your furnace.
How to Test Your Furnace’s Airflow
This may sound complicated, but it’s really pretty easy. While your furnace is running, walk around your home and feel your heat registers for airflow. If you don’t feel anything, see if there’s anything you can see that might be blocking the register. If there’s not, call Cooper Climate Control Heating & Air Conditioning to make sure everything is working fine with your furnace blower.
What to Do If Your Furnace Doesn’t Ignite
The most common reason a gas furnace will fail to ignite is the pilot light going out. If your pilot light goes out, shut off the gas cock (located near the pilot). Next, turn the cock to “pilot” while pushing the pilot RESET button. Hold a match up to the gas to light the pilot again.
How to Properly Remove Vent Blockages
Cleaning the vents and ducts should remove blockages caused by dirt and other debris. Blockages in the vents can interfere with heat flow in your home. Be sure to check the outdoor vents too –ice can block the outdoor vents, which can lead to problems like carbon monoxide leakage. Make sure to turn off your furnace before you try to remove the ice.
How to Stop Air Leaks and Prevent Heat Loss
If you notice air leaks emanating from your system, use caulk to seal off any gaps. In addition, placing weather stripping around doors and windows can also keep your home from losing heat, which makes your furnace work harder.
What to Do If You Smell Gas
If you ever smell gas coming from the furnace, evacuate immediately and call 911, the gas company and Cooper Climate Control Heating & Air Conditioning, in that order. Be sure to avoid lighting matches or using any electrical appliances until you are safely away from the area.
Winter may be coming, but if your furnace is in good shape, you don’t have to worry about it! Try all these furnace maintenance steps for yourself, and if you want a more comprehensive furnace inspection, call Cooper Climate Control Heating & Air Conditioning!