A fully functioning furnace is invaluable during winter, providing you with warmth and comfort inside your home. However, after going unused for several months, it’s not uncommon for the unit to seize up or develop problems that require furnace repairs or maintenance. To make sure your furnace is prepared for the cold days ahead, follow these steps.

5 Steps to Get Your Furnace Winter-Ready

1. Change the Air Filters

Your air filters protect your furnace blower from dust and debris that can undermine the efficiency of the unit and lead to air quality issues. Before you fire up the furnace this winter, check that the air filters are clean and replace them if necessary. If you have permanent electrostatic filters, wash them thoroughly.

2. Clean the Heat Exchanger

The heat exchanger is the component in the furnace that heats the air. Damage to this part can lead to a toxic carbon monoxide leak, which requires immediate furnace repairs. To avoid this risk, hire an HVAC professional to vacuum and inspect your heat exchanger annually.

3. Lubricate the Blower Motor

Check your furnace manual to find out if you have a blower that needs lubricating. If it does, apply oil to it as per the manual to prevent it from burning out and creating unusual noises.

4. Inspect Your Furnace’s Chimney

Contact a technician to have your furnace’s chimney inspected. Clear away obstructions, such as birds' nests and debris, as well as soot buildup, so you can minimize fire risks.

5. Turn on the Thermostat

To check if your furnace is working, monitor how your thermostat responds when you turn it on. If the heat doesn’t start within a minute, see if the wiring is secured. If your connection seems fine and the power source is on, contact a furnace repair technician to have it fixed.

If your blower motor burned out or your heat exchanger is damaged, turn to Thomaston Oil. For over 30 years, this family-owned and -operated business has been providing reliable oil deliveries to its residential and commercial clients in Litchfield County, CT. As a trusted HVAC contractor, they offer cutting-edge solutions for all your needs, including boiler installations and furnace replacements. For more information about their services, visit their website or call (860) 283-4878.