Preparing your Furnace for Winter

Winter is almost upon us, so now is the time to check your furnace to make sure it is in prime condition. It isn’t easy to dial a repairman on the phone when you are shivering from the cold.

Before you begin, flip the breaker for your furnace in your home’s electrical panel to avoid the risk of electric shock. Also, make sure the gas valve is turned off.

First, take a vacuum (with a pole attachment) and clean all the relevant sections of your heating system: The main compartment of the furnace, the blower blades, the air intake vents.

Second, check the fan belt. If there are signs of wear and tear, replace it.

Next, replace the filter. In fact, it would be best to buy extras and replace the filter once every month or two during the winter months to avoid dust buildup.

The fourth step is to inspect the sheet metal duct system for possible damage. The various temperatures of the air pushed through the ducts throughout the year inevitably make the metal expand or contract. Duct tape is the obvious choice to fill in any cracks.

Finally, flip the breaker back on, turn the gas valve back on, relight the pilot (if necessary), and adjust the thermostat temperature to test the system.  If everything is in order, you are ready for the winter!

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