October in Colorado is one of the craziest months on the calendar. It is much like April where two seasons wrestle and grapple for control. In this case, fall and winter duke it out. In one day we can go from a 75-degree sunny soccer Saturday to a 35-degree football Sunday with snowflakes falling. So, as you rediscover how to layer your wardrobe, it is also important to ensure the furnace is ready to go. Here are some tips to get your furnace ready for winter.
Replace Air Filters
This is probably the one do-it-yourself item that will keep your furnace operating efficiently and ensure the air circulating through your home is clean. A dirty air filter, for your furnace system, is like trying to breathe through a stuffy nose. Plus, a dirty filter allows for dirt build up in your furnace that can hamper how everything operates. You should change out your filter every 30 days, so get a stock pile of them.
Remove Items From Around Furnace and Vents
Make sure you remove items from around the furnace area, especially anything that might catch fire. Also, ensure all the vents in your home are clear of debris such as piles of laundry, furniture, etc. This is especially important for the air intakes and returns throughout your home.
Check the Burners
During the summer months, dust can accumulate on the burners. So clean them off and check for any sign of misalignment and rust.
Thermostat Check
The thermostat is the brain behind your furnace system. It tells the system to turn on and then turn off. So, a lot of perceived problems with your furnace can actually be tracked back to thermostat problems. In fact, some thermostats run on battery power, so make sure you change out the batteries in your wall- mounted thermostat.
Clean Out Your System
Another thing to consider, if you have not done so recently, is to have a service come out and clean your furnace, ducts and vents. However, those services do get busy with the onset of winter, so it is best give them a call early and schedule an appointment.
How to Use This Information
Do not wait until it is a snowy and wintry day to discover your furnace is not working properly. At Major, we can help with your furnace repair, but we can also help with ongoing maintenance through our Home Comfort Assurance program. Give us a call at 303-424-1622 or schedule online and we will come out make sure your furnace is ready to go for the winter.
