5 Winter Heater Maintenance Tips for a Warm, Green Home

Blog posted provided by: Hazel Hale is the Content Marketing Strategist of Annette Hale’s Indoor Comfort Systems, the most trusted provider of heating and AC repair services in Huntsville, AL and the surrounding areas. When not working, she enjoys photography, digital art and watching her son’s soccer games.

Winter is here, and you want to keep your home warm and cozy without breaking the bank. But did you know that your heating system can lose efficiency and performance if you don’t maintain it properly? That’s why it’s important to follow some simple heater maintenance tips to ensure your furnace is running smoothly, safely, and free from frequent heating repairs. Not only will you save money on your energy bills, but you’ll also reduce your environmental impact and help Montgomery County achieve its goal of lowering greenhouse emissions.

In this blog, we’ll focus on electric heating systems, which are cleaner and more sustainable than gas-powered ones. We’ll show you how to inspect, clean, and adjust your furnace, thermostat, vent, air filter, exhaust, and burner. We’ll also tell you when to call a professional technician for help. By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a warm, green home this winter.

Why Heater Maintenance Matters

Photo by Dilruba Sarıçimen/Pexels

Ensuring Efficiency

One of the main reasons to maintain your heater regularly is to ensure its efficiency. A well-maintained heater can use less energy to heat your home, which means lower utility bills and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Montgomery County is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and achieving net zero emissions by 2035. By keeping your heater in good shape, you are contributing to this goal and helping the environment.

Longevity of Your Heating System

Another benefit of heater maintenance is that it can extend the lifespan of your heating system. A heater that is properly serviced and cleaned can last longer than one that is neglected or abused. This means you can avoid the hassle and cost of replacing your heater prematurely and also reduce the amount of waste and pollution that comes from disposing of old heaters. Montgomery County is focused on sustainability and promoting a circular economy, where resources are used efficiently, and waste is minimized.

Reducing Repair Bills

Finally, heater maintenance can help you reduce your repair bills. An HVAC system that is regularly checked and tuned up can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems that require expensive repairs or replacements. You can also avoid the risk of a heater breakdown in the middle of winter, which can be inconvenient and dangerous for you and your family.

Top 5 Heater Maintenance Tips

Tip 1: Regular Filter Replacements

One of the simplest and most effective furnace maintenance tips is to replace the air filter regularly. A dirty or clogged filter can reduce the airflow and efficiency of your heating system, as well as affect the indoor air quality. Depending on the type and quality of your filter, you may need to replace it every month, every three months, or every six months.

Check the manufacturer’s recommendations and your usage patterns to determine the best schedule for your home. You can also use high-quality filters with a high Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating, which can capture more dust, pollen, and other particles from the air. Replacing your filter regularly can help you save energy, improve comfort, and protect your health.

Tip 2: Clean Dirt and Dust

One of the most important furnace maintenance tips to prepare for winter is to clean the dirt and dust that accumulates on the furnace components over time. Dirt and dust can reduce the efficiency and performance of your furnace, as well as increase the risk of fire.

To clean the furnace, you will need to turn off the power supply and then remove the furnace doors. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to gently remove the dust from the blower, motor, burners, and other parts. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe off any stubborn dirt. Be careful not to damage any wires or connections while cleaning. After cleaning, replace the furnace doors and turn on the power and gas supply. You should clean the furnace at least once a year, preferably before the heating season starts.

Tip 3: Check Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is the device that tells your furnace when to turn on and off, depending on the temperature you set. It also affects how much energy you use to heat your home. A poorly calibrated or malfunctioning thermostat can make your furnace run longer or shorter than necessary, wasting energy and money.

To avoid this, you should check your thermostat regularly and make sure it is working properly. You can test it by setting it to a higher or lower temperature than usual and seeing if your furnace responds accordingly. If not, you may need to replace the batteries, adjust the settings, or call a professional for repair.

Another way to improve your thermostat’s performance is to program it according to your schedule and preferences. For example, you can lower the temperature at night or when you are away from home and raise it when you are awake or at home. This can help you save up to 10% on your heating bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

If you want more convenience and control over your thermostat, you may consider upgrading to a smart thermostat. A smart thermostat is a device that connects to your Wi-Fi network and allows you to adjust the temperature from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Some smart thermostats can also learn your habits and preferences and automatically adjust the temperature for optimal comfort and efficiency. They can also provide you with feedback and reports on your energy usage and savings.

Tip 4: Schedule Preventative Maintenance

One of the best ways to keep your furnace running smoothly and efficiently is to schedule preventative maintenance at least once a year. A qualified technician can inspect your furnace, clean the blower and the burner, check the gas valve and the heat exchanger, and make any necessary adjustments or repairs. This can help prevent problems before they become big issues that require costly replacements or compromise your safety.

Preventative maintenance can also extend the life of your furnace and lower your energy costs by ensuring that your system is operating at peak efficiency. You don’t want to wait until your furnace breaks down in the middle of winter to call for service. It’s a good idea to schedule your annual maintenance before the heating season starts so that you can enjoy a warm and comfortable home all winter long.

Tip 5. Inspect Your Air Registers

Air registers are the vents that distribute warm air throughout your home. They can get clogged with dirt and dust, which can reduce the airflow and efficiency of your furnace.

To prevent this, you should clean the air registers regularly with a vacuum or a damp cloth. You should also make sure to keep at least a few inches of clearance around them and avoid blocking them with furniture, curtains, or rugs. This will help your furnace to work better and save you money on energy costs. If you notice any signs of damage or leakage on your air registers, you should contact a professional furnace maintenance service to fix them as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Maintaining your home heating systems through routine care and professional assistance prolongs their life, prevents major issues, and keeps your home warm and green. Don’t wait – take action now! Explore more resources or schedule a maintenance appointment with a local technician. Opt out at any time, but the benefits of a well-maintained home furnace are bound to keep you cozy and eco-conscious.