The holiday season is a time for joy, warmth, and gatherings with loved ones. But the last thing you want during your festive celebrations is for your furnace to break down, leaving your home cold and uncomfortable. A little maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your furnace runs smoothly all winter long. Here are four essential furnace maintenance tips to keep your home cozy for the holidays.
1. Check and Replace Your Air Filter
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain your furnace is to check the air filter regularly, and replace it every 1-3 months. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, which makes your furnace work harder to heat your home. This not only reduces efficiency but can also lead to higher energy bills—a holiday expense you don’t need. So, try to remember to check your filter at least once a month during the heating season. If it looks dirty, replace it right away. Clean air filters ensure better airflow, improved indoor air quality, and a more efficient system.
2. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
Just like your car, your furnace needs routine tune-ups to stay in top shape. During a professional maintenance check, a technician will inspect, clean, and also test the various components of your furnace. They’ll check for potential issues like cracks in the heat exchanger, malfunctioning thermostats, and clogged burners. This preventive maintenance helps to catch small problems before they turn into bigger, more expensive repairs—especially important when your furnace is working overtime to keep your home warm for holiday guests.
3. Clear the Area Around Your Furnace
Your furnace needs space to breathe, just like you do. Ensure the area around your furnace is free from clutter, such as holiday decorations, boxes, or laundry. Restricted airflow can limit the efficiency of your system and create safety hazards. Keeping the area clean and clutter-free also makes it easier for a technician to access your unit for maintenance or repairs. Additionally, check your outdoor exhaust vents to ensure they’re not blocked by snow, leaves, or other debris. Blocked vents can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup in your house.
4. Test Your Thermostat
Your thermostat plays an extremely important role in how efficiently your furnace operates. If it’s not working properly, your furnace may struggle to maintain a consistent temperature. Start by testing your thermostat settings—turn it up a few degrees and see how quickly your furnace responds. If you notice any delays or irregularities, it might be time to recalibrate or replace it. For maximum efficiency, consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat, which gives you the ability to adjust the temperature based on your unique schedule, helping you save energy and reduce costs during the holidays.
Contact Wisler for Furnace Maintenance in Roanoke, VA and the Surrounding Areas
Furnace maintenance doesn’t just keep your home comfortable—it also helps you avoid uneccessary and expensive repairs and assures your system is running safely. Don’t let a furnace breakdown dampen your holiday spirit! By following these four incredibly helpful maintenance tips, you can be confident that your home will stay warm and cozy throughout the festivities. Need professional help? Schedule a furnace maintenance service today to keep your system in peak condition for the holiday season.
