At some point, every homeowner's heating system will need repairs, but there are many things that can be done to keep the system running at peak conditions, which will reduce the need for repairs as well as extend the life of the system. The following are a few things you should be doing.
Change your filters
This is one of the most important parts of maintaining your heating system. And although every homeowner knows they need to change the filter, the real problem is remembering to do it. If the manufacturer's recommendation is to change your filter once a month, it is often a good idea to do this on an important day for something else during the month. For example, if you routinely pay your mortgage on a certain day, you can also change the filter on that day. Relating one thing to another may help you remember. Also, make sure you always have extra filters so you can change out the old one right away and so you don't have to put off a filter change because you didn't have any on hand.
Check your thermostat
If you have a programmable thermostat, you may want to check the settings. Also, don't forget to change the batteries in your thermostat. Depending on the make and model of the device, your thermostat may have intermittent problems as the batteries run down. If you're not sure of how old the batteries are, simply change them out to be on the safe side.
Keep the vents clean
Most of the dirt that flows through the ducts will accumulate on the vents. Most of these vents can be taken off with a screwdriver. You can try to vacuum them, but for best results, use soap and water. Even with routine filter changes, this type of cleaning should be done once a year. The quality of the air will improve greatly.
Hire a furnace repair company to do a tune-up
Along with the three things listed above, you can have a cleaning and inspection done to your entire heating system by a professional furnace repair technician. This type of work will include inspecting and servicing critical parts in your system that you are not likely to have the skill to do. Often, a key component can be found that is close to failing. Replacing it before the failure will prevent your system from breaking down.
Keeping your heating system in top condition is an important investment in both time and money. During the coldest time of the winter, your heating system will have the best chance of operating in peak condition and will have a low chance of breaking down if it has been properly maintained.
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