It is good idea to prepare for the cold weather before it catches up with you. Many homeowners are always caught unaware only to start rushing up and down when they realize the heating system is not in good condition. Therefore, now would be a good time to give your furnace a thorough check to ensure comfort for your family during this cold season.
Know your furnace
It does not hurt to know a little bit about your furnace. If you own a gas furnace it is probably situated in an isolated space such as the basement or attic, and consequently you may forget to attend to it. However, although it seems to be working properly, it still needs regular inspection and maintenance which is fairly easy to carry out. You can start by checking on the following things;
- Any unusual noises
- Signs of water or moisture around the boiler
- Any debris
If you notice any of these issues, the unit may need to be looked at by an expert. The area around the unit should be free of any cleaning products since they can be dangerous. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, you should invest in a carbon monoxide detector and place it near the furnace.
Call a professional
It is advisable to have a professional inspect your unit every year to maintain efficiency and enhance safety. There are better chances of an expert detecting issues that you would not have been able to notice on your own. Reputable companies such as Rose Heating Co. of Portland, OR offer residential customers annual service contracts.
They will ensure a licensed and certified technician carries out maintenance using the company’s list of maintenance steps. He will switch off the power and close the gas valve then get rid of the dirt and rust. He will also inspect all the components such as thermostat contacts, thermostat batteries, fan belt, belt tension, air filter, gas pressures, thermocouples, burners and radiators.
Amazingly, it usually takes about an hour for a technician to carry out the inspection. There is usually a flat fee for the service call but any work done may attract an hourly rate often split into 15-minute increments. Technicians from Rose Heating operate from trucks equipped with emergency parts so that repairs are done on-site in as little time as possible. It will cost you more to have faulty parts replaced.
Home owner tips
Apart from waiting for your yearly inspection, there are a few things you can do to avoid problems during winter;
- The water pressure on the boiler should always read between 12-51 pounds per square inch.
- Adjust your thermostat setting upwards when it is very cold to prevent the pipes from busting.
- Clear out your flue pipes regularly as there may be snow drifts, nests and other blockages that may cause inefficiencies.