4 Steps To Prepare Your Heating For The Summer Months
Soon, spring will be here and you will be ready to turn your heating off until the next winter. There are some things that you may want to do to prepare your heating system for the long months it will be sitting idle. If you are ready to turn your heating off for the year, here are some things that you will want to do to prepare:
1. Turning Off The System And Checking Electrical Connections
The first thing you will want to do before you begin maintenance to your furnace is turn the power off to it. With some systems, this may be a main switch near the unit, which can sometimes be just like a light switch. In some cases, the main power may be in the breaker box of your home. When you turn the power off, you can remove the access panel and look for any loose connections and make sure that all the wires are in good shape.
2. Cleaning The Blower And Access Panel Before Summer Starts
While you have the access panel off, there are some other things that you may want to do. You can use a vacuum hose to clean out any dust inside the access panel and blower enclosure of the unit. You may also want to check the access panel to make sure that it closes properly and is not damaged. If it is bent, straighten it back out so it fits well in the opening. There is often a safety switch here, and if the panel does not close correctly, your heating may not turn on.
3. Changing The Filter To Keep Dust And Debris Under Control During Idle Months
Before you put the panel back on the unit and close everything, it is a good time to change the filter of the unit. Once you remove the filter, you can check to make sure that there is no dust that you missed. If you have a HEPA type filter, you may be able to just clean it with the vacuum, but it is a good idea to replace it completely before the next heating season arrives.
4. Checking Utility Connections Before Your Shut Your System Off For The Season
Your heating system may use one of many different types of energy sources, such as gas, oil or electricity. Before you turn your system off, you will want to check these connections to make sure they are working properly. If you turn the gas off, check the pilot light. Turning the gas off to the system when it is not needed can help save energy and keep your home safe.
If you need help with servicing and repairs to your heating system, contact a heating and air conditioning contractor, such as Thermotech Inc, to help ensure your system is ready to be turned off until next year.