How to Prepare Your Furnace for Winter: Winter Furnace Maintenance Guide
Check for furnace problems before Illinois temperatures drop below freezing. This complete guide shows you how to prepare your furnace for winter. It includes …
- Essential maintenance steps you can take today
- When to call a professional
DIY Winter Furnace Preparation
Replace Your Furnace Filter
Start your winter preparation with your furnace filter. A clean air filter does more than improve air quality—it helps your system run efficiently and prevents unnecessary strain on your furnace. When regularly using your furnace, check your filter monthly and replace it at least every three months. This simple step can significantly reduce your energy bills and extend your system’s life.
Test Your Furnace
Next, conduct an early test run of your heating system. Turn your heat on before you actually need it, and pay attention to how your system performs. Listen for any unusual noises and note any burning smells. While a slight burning smell is normal during the first use, any persistent odors should be checked by a professional.
Ensure Clearance Around the Furnace
Ensure proper clearance around your furnace to guarantee optimal performance. Remove any stored items within three feet of your unit and ensure all vents are unobstructed. Check your outdoor exhaust vent for debris, leaves, or even bird nests that could block proper ventilation. This careful attention to clearance helps prevent both safety hazards and performance issues.
When To Call a Professional
While DIY maintenance is important, certain warning signs indicate you need professional furnace maintenance. If you hear strange noises or notice burning odors, don’t wait to get help. Uneven heating throughout your home or unexplained increases in your energy bills often signal underlying issues that require expert diagnosis.
If you have a gas furnace, pay particular attention to your pilot light. A yellow flame instead of blue indicates incomplete combustion and potential carbon monoxide risks. Additionally, any system over 10 years old should receive professional inspection before winter arrives.
Professional Maintenance Matters
Professional furnace maintenance goes beyond what homeowners can do themselves. A certified technician will check crucial safety components, test electrical connections, and inspect your heat exchanger for potential issues. They’ll also clean and adjust your burners for optimal performance and verify your system’s overall efficiency.
Save Money with Early Action
Taking care of furnace maintenance now helps avoid costly emergency repairs later. Beyond preventing breakdowns, proper maintenance reduces your monthly heating bills and can add years to your system’s life. Many manufacturers also require regular professional maintenance to maintain warranty coverage.
Schedule Your Winter Furnace Maintenance
Don’t wait for the first cold snap to think about your furnace. Contact Tiger at (217) 790-3429 to schedule your furnace maintenance today. Our expert technicians serve Collinsville, Springfield, Bloomington, and Peoria with reliable, professional service that keeps your system running at its best.
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