Now that the cold season is just around the corner, it is important to have your heating system checked before winter. You wouldn’t want your HVAC breaking down in the middle of winter! Completing a thorough maintenance check avoids costly furnace repair bills. Plus, maintenance gives you peace of mind that your heater will keep on providing warmth and comfort to your home all winter long. The fact is that regular maintenance is important for many reasons – but mostly the prevention of headaches down the road!
We always recommend hiring a professional, NATE-certified technician to perform a heating maintenance service. That’s because if you ever need to cash in on your warranty, you’ll need proof of maintenance from a licensed HVAC company.
Still, if you’d prefer to tackle a routine heating system maintenance check on your own, we’ve pulled together some tips. Remember, turn off the power to your HVAC before doing any maintenance check, especially when looking at internal components.
Get a Programmable Thermostat
Get a smart thermostat for your heating system like the Google Nest. This thermostat will learn your behavior and automatically adjust your heating system to just the right temperature. It will always look for the most balanced and comfortable temperature for your home and reduces your energy usage.
Check Air Filters
Dirty air filters are one of the primary reasons heating systems break down. Dusts and debris can easily accumulate and clog the air filter, decreasing the efficiency of your heating system. So, change that filter! Replace your air filter at least 4 times a year to ensure the best performance from your furnace. If you’re not sure what type of filter you need, you can always call us to ask.
Clean Fan Blades
The next thing that you should consider is the fan blade. All kinds of dust can also accumulate on the fan blade and the best way to clean it is to use a vacuum. First, make certain your heating system is off and there is no power to the unit. Then, use a vacuum attachment to remove dust from the blades. Do not push and bend the fan blades when you are cleaning them. Dust-free blades push the air more efficiently.
Lubricate Moving Parts
This one is for the extra-handy among our Los Angeles homeowners. Since a heating and cooling system is a machine, it will need some oil for lubrication. But don’t go overboard! It only needs just a few drops on its motor and blower shafts to keep it running smoothly. This should be done once a year. If your furnace is very noisy, there may be a bigger problem. It’s time to call in the experts to inspect your system and see if your furnace needs repair.
Check Your Vents and Air Registers
The vents in your home should be clean. Use a damp microfiber towel to give them a quick wipe. Make sure that nothing is blocking your air vents. There should be at least six to twelve inches of open area around the registers, so make sure there is no furniture pushed up against a wall with a grille. If you find that air coming out of one vent feels weaker than the others, there could be something amiss inside the ductwork. We provide professional ductwork services and can help identify the problem, fast!
Consider Replacing Your Heater
Lastly, think about whether it’s time to upgrade or buy a new heating system to replace the old one. Newer models are more efficient and use less energy. And if you’re worried about the cost of a new furnace, you may be surprised to learn how affordable a new furnace can be. During the slower season of fall, there are many rebates, discounts, and tax credits to take advantage of. Plus, financing makes it easy to get upgraded comfort at a low monthly rate.
A routine maintenance heating system check is important if you don’t want any hassles or problems with your heating system this winter season. If our DIY tips sound like too much trouble, you can always call the HVAC specialists at MightyServ, formally MightyServ. We are experts in heater tuneups and regular maintenance serving the San Fernando Valley. Contact us today!
