Simple Home Heating Tasks to Complete Today
There are plenty of home heating tasks you can perform to keep your HVAC system operating efficiently. The following tasks are easy to complete and should be done regularly throughout the year:
Replace Air Filters.
Air filters should be inspected, cleaned, or changed at least once every month. This helps improve airflow into your furnace, which in turn, boosts efficiency and helps keep clean air circulating throughout your home.
Look for Obstructions.
Radiators, baseboard heaters and air registers should be free and and clear of any obstructions that may block airflow.
Throttle Your Thermostat.
Test your thermostat by programming it to a balmy 80 degrees. Listen for a moment, and if your thermostat kicks on, it’s working. If not, it may need to be serviced or replaced. Of all the home heating tasks, this is the easiest because it takes just a few seconds to complete.
Check Fuel Levels.
If your home is powered by propane gas or an oil furnace, make sure you have adequate fuel in your tanks. It’s a good idea to never let the fuel level drop below what you need for a week of heavy use.
Clean the Heat Exchanger.
Soot, dirt and corrosion can result in inefficient heat transfer. This causes your furnace to work harder than it has to, wearing it out faster than normal. All you have to do is wipe it with a damp rag and inspect it to ensure that it’s not pitted from corrosion.
Inspect Your Ductwork.
Make sure to check ducts and pipes to ensure they’re properly connected and sealed. If you discover any breaks in the pipe or seams that have come loose, don’t seal them with duct tape. Instead, use a mastic sealant or metal tape. These last longer and provide a more durable repair.
At Sobieski Services, Inc., our goal is to help educate our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New Jersey about energy and home comfort issues – especially HVAC and plumbing issues – so that they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.
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