Performing routine maintenance on your heating oil furnace will help ensure it functions safely and efficiently throughout the winter. Since the weather will be getting colder, taking a proactive approach to your seasonal maintenance will help you prepare for the chill ahead. Use this guide to learn how to prepare the oil furnace for winter.

3 Steps to Getting the Home's Oil Heating System Ready

1. Change the Filter

Air filters collect dust, allergens, and debris before they circulate throughout the house, and particles will accumulate on the filter screen over time. This buildup will bog down the system, cause it to run inefficiently, and decrease its life span. To avoid these issues, change the filter before cold weather arrives, then each month afterward while in use.

2. Schedule Oil Delivery

Heating oil furnaces require regular fuel refills to provide heat to your home all season. Before winter arrives, look for a reliable oil provider who can schedule routine fuel delivery as needed. You should also check the fuel level and fill the tanks ahead of time to ensure there’s enough oil to perform system maintenance and operational tests.

3. Clean the Thermostat

The thermostat responds to temperature shifts in the house and tells your system when it needs to produce more or less heat. A dirty device can affect its calibration, interfering with its operation.

Clean the thermostat before winter to ensure it can regulate temperature accurately. To clear dust and debris from the device, remove the cover and clean the contact points with compressed air or a soft-bristled brush.

Keep your heating oil furnace running all winter long with deliveries from Alaska Petroleum in Fairbanks. This company is one of the largest fuel providers in the state, and its team has proudly provided fuel to residential customers since 1981. Call (907) 488-2575 to schedule a delivery, or visit them online to learn about their products and services.