While we always recommend that you turn on your heating system prior to actually needing it to address any furnace issues that may arise, it’s possible that your system has not been fired up yet this season. With temperatures plummeting this weekend, you may very well need to use your furnace in the next couple of days, and we want to make sure that you are set up for success!
Follow these steps when you go to turn your heating system on for the first time this season…
Check The Furnace Filter
Whenever you switch over from cooling to heating season, you’ll want to make sure that you are operating with a clean furnace filter. Locate the filter rack and clean or replace as needed to allow proper HVAC air flow.
Clear The Area Near Furnace & Vents
Make sure that there are no obstructions blocking any of your vents/registers throughout your home. Inspect the area around the furnace to confirm it is clean and organized; any item left near the furnace becomes a hazard.
Ensure Proper Operation of CO/Smoke Detectors
Go around your house and confirm that all smoke and CO dectectors are in working order. Carbon monoxide can be a byproduct of a faulty furnace, so make sure you have a CO detector on every level of your home.
Turn To Heat Mode
Visit your thermostat and locate the setting that turns your system to heat mode. Adjust the temperature setting so that your system initiates the heating cycle.
Listen For Noises
When set to heat mode, you may hear some familiar sounds: clicking of the thermostat, whining of the inducer motor, thunder sound of fuel igniting in heat exchanger. Pay attention to these sounds; take note and call for service if anything sounds alarming.
Observe Smells
Once the furnace starts to run, you may notice a burning smell. It’s very common for a thin layer of dust to have settled on your heat exchanger since the last heating season. This smell is the burning off of that dust, and it should resolve itself after the first couple of uses of your furnace. (If you continue to notice a burning smell after many uses, consider making a call for help.)
Take Note Of Performance
Now that your furnace is running, pay attention to the temperature of the air that is coming out of your vents. If the air is warm and achieves the temperature that your thermostat is set to, rest assured that your system has been started up successfully. If your system hasn’t started up, or you are simply not satisfied with the performance of the furnace, now is a great time to schedule a service call.
Wishing everyone a safe and comfortable heating season! When you need furnace repair, replacement, or routine maintenance, count on the fast, friendly service of your team at Logan Services A/C, Heat & Plumbing.
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