You rely on your heater to keep your family warm and comfortable when temperatures plummet. As the nights get darker and colder, you most likely run your heating system more frequently. The last thing you need is to deal with an unexpected heating problem that causes a lot of stress. Follow these six tips to avoid causing damage to your heating system so that it functions at its prime for years to come.
1. Schedule Regular Maintenance
One of the best ways to preserve the longevity of your heating system is to schedule regular maintenance services with your HVAC company. Preventative maintenance can help you save money in the long run. When professional technicians are able to identify even small problems with your unit as soon as they arise, they can address these issues and prevent them from becoming larger, more costly issues later down the road.
Most heating system manufacturers recommend maintenance and tune-up services in the fall to ensure that the unit will be ready to function properly during the colder winter months. In addition to scheduling maintenance service, don’t forget to keep the outdoor unit clear of debris.
2. Pay Attention to Warning Signs
Before your heating system breaks down and requires emergency repair, it will most likely show signs of impending issues. While it’s easy to overlook heating problems, keeping an eye out for warning signs is highly important. To avoid the need to pay for costly repairs down the road, contact a professional if you notice changes such as:
- Cool air circulating through the vents
- Unusual or unpleasant odors
- Poor airflow
- Hot or cool spots throughout the house
- Strange noises
- A spike in energy bills
3. Be Easy on Your Heating System
When it’s really cold outside, you might be tempted to turn up the temperature to quickly warm up your home. Unfortunately, turning up the thermostat frequently can put excess wear and tear on your unit. Rather than putting the extra strain on your heating system, try to keep your thermostat set as close to the outside temperature as possible. If your home feels unusually cold, check doors and windows for air leaks that could be causing unpleasant drafts throughout the home.
4. Keep Your Heating Unit Clean
A simple and easy way to keep your heating unit in good condition is to keep it clean. Before cleaning, turn the power to the unit off to avoid the risk of electrocution. Remove the panels so that you can easily access the interior components of the system. Make sure you thoroughly wipe down the belts, pulleys, and blower at least once a year to reduce the damaging effects of debris and dust.
5. Install a Programmable Thermostat
If you frequently adjust the thermostat, you could be putting extra strain on your heating system. You may be wasting a lot of energy, too. Ideally, you should wait at least eight hours before you adjust the thermostat.
To reduce energy consumption and wear and tear on your heating unit, consider investing in a programmable thermostat. This type of thermostat works by matching the heating output of your heater to the actual temperature needs of your living environment. That means that whenever you’re asleep or away from the home, your heater will run less often. This can generate significant energy savings.
6. Replace the Filters Regularly
A dirty or clogged air filter can wreak havoc on a heating system. If your unit has to work harder to pull air through the filter, it will require more energy, and your home will feel less comfortable. If your system uses disposable filters, a good rule of thumb is to replace them every one to three months. If you live in a dry or dusty area, you should consider replacing your filters even more often.
When it comes to your heating system, taking the time to practice these preventative measures can make a tremendous difference. The above suggestions can keep your heating unit working properly for the long-term. If you’re looking for a trustworthy heating service in Kennesaw, feel free to call the experts at Controlled Climate Services. We specialize in performing quality residential and commercial heating installations, heat pump repair, furnace repair, and heating maintenance. We also offer dedicated cooling, indoor air quality, and air purifier services.
