When winter is underway, your heating system is essential for your comfort and safety. It is critical that you schedule regular maintenance, as it can help your equipment run at peak performance. Here is what you need to know to help preserve the integrity of your heating system.

Change or Clean Your Filters

One of the simplest and most vital steps in heating maintenance is replacing or cleaning the air filters. Dirty filters can impede airflow, and this will force your system to work harder and use more energy, leading to increased wear and tear and higher energy bills. Change filters every two to three months during heavy use. If you have pets or allergies, consider changing them once each month for the best results.

Inspect and Clean Vents

Another maintenance task that you can perform on your own is removing obstructions from all your supply and return vents. Use a vacuum to clean any dust off the grills, and make sure there are no rugs, furniture, or curtains in the way.

Listen for Strange Noises

When your heating system warms your home, all you should hear is a gentle hum. If any other noises are present, such as loud banging, rattling, or clicking, then you have a potential issue that warrants professional attention. You may be contending with a loose part or a more serious issue, such as failing electrical components.

Check Your Thermostat

Sometimes, the issue may be as simple as having the wrong thermostat setting. Check to see that your device is actually set to “heat” instead of “cool.”

Clean Around the Furnace

The space where your furnace resides shouldn’t be used for storage. It is important that you keep this area free of clutter so that the equipment can breathe, as failure to do this can cause a potential fire.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

Even if everything seems fine with your heating system, it is still advantageous for you to schedule annual maintenance. A licensed and experienced technician can check for worn parts, clean and lubricate all internal components, and make sure the system is running efficiently. This can also help you avoid costly repairs later.

When something is amiss with your heating system, you should always reach out to a professional, as this will prevent problems from getting worse. If you need help restoring the warmth in your Lethbridge, Alberta home, reach out to Charlton & Hill Home Services for professional heating repairs right away.