Fall Furnace Maintenance to Prevent Winter No Heat Issues

Yes, it's only fall but there is no better time to conduct a tune up of your heating system. Living in Minnesota is awesome! We have many outdoor activities to keep us busy and active. However, we also have some extreme temperature swings that can take us by surprise at times. Keeping our heating systems in optimal working condition will not only keep us warm during nights when the temps reach sub-zero levels, it will also keep is safe. No one wants to be left without heat during our cold winters. Not only does a failed heating system cause stress and worry, emergency furnace repair in Lino Lakes and surrounding cities can be costly. Annual maintenance will keep your furnace operating at peak efficiency and will save you money on your energy bills, too.

Don't put yourself in a position where you may have ho heat this winter; follow these tips and stay comfy during even the coldest of nights. Before doing any inspections on your heating system yourself, always turn off the power and fuel supply to ensure your safety.

Clean or Change the Filter

Furnace filters protect your furnace by catching dirt, debris, and air particles before they enter your furnace and damage internal components. Some of the better filters can improve the air quality in your home by trapping pollen, mold spores, bacteria, etc. Depending on the type of filter you are using in your furnace, you should clean it or replace it every one to two months. Some filters can be cleaned, while others cannot. In addition, some higher MERV rated filters can be used longer before replacing. Just check your filter every month and replace it as it gets clogged. If you have an oil furnace, be sure to replace the oil filter in addition to the air filter.

Clean and Inspect the Your Furnace

Keeping the combustion chamber and blower compartments clean will help your furnace operate more efficiently. Vacuum both areas to remove any debris. Once cleaned, check the combustion chamber and blower compartment for any holes, etc. You can cover smaller holes with foil tape until you have a heating contractor inspect your furnace. In addition, check the ductwork for holes or leaks and cover them with tape, as well.

Check the Flame

Your furnace should have a solid and strong blue flame when it is lit and working. If you see a yellow or orange flame, it is a sign that there may be a problem that should be addressed as soon as possible by a professional heating contractor.

Call a Qualified Heating Company

Although most homeowners can perform the above inspections and cleaning tasks, there are some issues that require the inspection of a professional heating contractor. If you find excessive soot in your furnace, a non-blue flame, or experience your furnace running for a short time and then shutting down, call your local HVAC contractor for a thorough inspection and tune up. Most of these issues are indicators of more severe problems that can be safety concerns, as well.

Four Seasons Air Specialists has been providing heating in Lino Lakes and the northeast Metro area since 1974. Our trained technicians can provide furnace maintenance and tune ups so that you will remain comfortable throughout our Minnesota winters. Call us for your furnace tune up today!