Days are getting colder, the sun is nowhere to be seen- now you know it’s the beginning of winter. The intensity of winter is always unpredictable; what we can do is to be prepared to face winter.
We’ve been working in homes across Ontario for years, and trust us, most heating issues in winter start with things that could’ve been caught earlier. So before the deep freeze hits, here are some things we always recommend to customers.
1. Book a Furnace Check-up Before It’s Too Late
Don’t wait until your furnace quits in the middle of January. Every fall, we get flooded with emergency calls that could’ve been avoided with a simple tune-up in October or early November.
A tune-up, or a rough check from a licensed technician, will be a good choice. The inspection starts from the burner, gas level, complete wiring, and unwanted noise check.
2. Change the filter- make it a routine
Changing the filters of your HVAC system should be a habit; the change can be done between 2-3 months. Clogged and dirty filters are the most common reason for slowing down the flow of air. If you don’t give attention to your filter, this will eventually affect the system, and you will have to get frequent professional help.
If you haven’t looked at it since spring, it’s time.
3. Draft sealing up
Drafts can make the HVAC system run longer than usual. Take a look at the small details where we usually don’t give attention, like windows, doors, and outlets. Keeping the indoor weatherproofing will help you in the long run.
You’ll feel a difference, and so will your wallet when the gas bill shows up.
4. Vent inspection – Check for blocks
A sudden drop in the air circulation inside the house is a common problem during winter. Check all the vents to avoid this issue. Sometimes a piece of furniture, carpet, or a curtain blocks the air from coming out. Check the inside too, to confirm nothing is blocking the air.
5. Check the thermostat by adjusting it.
Before winter hits, check the furnace by turning down the cool air to hot air. Try to do it by the thermostat; if it takes a while to power up, it can be due to an issue with the thermostat. Knowing it early will help you to repair or replace the thermostat.
A faulty thermostat is a headache in all seasons.
6. Check & test the smoke alarms and CO detectors
The furnace will be running all day until winter stops, so keeping the house safe is very important. All the fire alarms should be checked, change the batteries in case if needed. Keep a carbon monoxide(CO) detector inside the bedroom and near the furnace to identify any gas leak.
7. Check the humidity level
The air outside the furnace is hot and dry; dry air leads to dry skiing and more static energy. The humidifier keeps the house at the required moisture. Always check the status of the humidifier if you have one. The latest model automatically turns on when the furnace is on.
Keep them on and at an optimal level between 30-40% indoor humidity during winter.
8. Clear the Area Around the Furnace
Always make sure the area around your furnace has some room; a congested placement can make it difficult for servicing.
In most houses, they keep the cleaning supplies and mops around the system. Clear that area for easy access for the technicians. A minimum of 3 feet of clear space is best.
Cluttered furnace rooms are a safety issue and a fire risk. Don’t wait for your technician to be the one to move everything.
9. Get Your System Professionally Serviced
DIY checks are good, but there’s no substitute for a proper maintenance visit. Our team at Infinity HVAC LTD runs a full checklist that includes:
- Checking gas pressure
- Inspecting the heat exchanger
- Testing the blower motor
- Checking for CO leaks
- Inspecting venting and ductwork
- Airflow balancing
These services will be enough to prevent the breakdown of the furnace in the middle of winter.
10. Do you need an Upgrade? Call us
Most heating system has a lifespan of 10-13 years. Most of them completely break down after this time frame. If your system is older than that, and you are tired of repairing it, no need to doubt for a second, go for a complete heating system replacement.
New models are particularly more environmentally friendly, quiet, and deliver high performance with low energy usage
Let’s Get Your Home Ready
Winter in Ontario is no joke, and no one wants to be left in the cold. Try to do these preps before winter to avoid sudden breakdowns.
Don’t hesitate to give Infinity HVAC LTD a call in case you need any help to diagnose the issue with your system. From furnace installation to maintenance, we do it all.
