TIM HEWETSONHome Heating Check-up
By Tim Hewetson • Sep 17th, 2009 • Category: Buying and Selling, Lead Story
Winter is almost upon us as the brisk fall days turn to cold and blustery days. Maintaining your homes heart is paramount if you want to stay warm throughout the winter months. Here are some things you can do to make sure your furnace stays in top notch shape.
1. Check your furnace filter regularly and clean or change as needed. A clogged air filter reduces the efficiency of your furnace which equates to higher heating costs.
2. Inspect the air intakes and exhaust vents of your furnace to make sure no unwanted creatures have taken up residence in them.
3. Have your furnace motor and burner serviced by a qualified HVAC contractor. Some of the tasks they may perform are: Carbon Monoxide testing, check operation of safety controls and thermostat, service and inspect the burners, inspect the ignition system and service as required, inspect and service the fan blower & motor, check the gas line to the furnace.
4. Ensure that your cold air return ducts are open and free of obstructions.
5. Make sure that the space around your furnace is not obstructed by boxes, furniture, and objects. Maintaining airflow around your furnace is important and also helps prevent safety hazards.
6. Clean your humidfier and replace any parts that no longer operate due to water residue.
The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporations website has further tips on seasonal maintenance of your home and it’s mechanical systems. CMHC home maintenance schedule.
Tim Hewetson is a Real Estate Sales Representative with Royal LePage Estate Realty in Toronto Ontario. His goal is to make your home selling and buying process efficient, stress-free and successful.
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Just to add to Point #1, not only does a clogged filter equate to higher short term heating costs, but can seriously stress the furnace itself and lead to MUCH higher long-term system costs. Also, remember that most AC set-ups tie in to the furnace filter, so make sure that you monitor and replace your filters year-round.