That time of the year when days are shorter and the nights are colder is here. Apart from wearing jackets and sweaters to keep yourself warm, it is also the time to turn on the furnace. Since the furnace was in hibernation mode, you need to consider several important things recommended by furnace services before you turn it on. These considerations are there to avoid any mishaps and prolong the life of your furnace. Therefore, let’s discuss them in detail.
Schedule Annual Maintenance
One of the most common mistakes people tend to make is ignoring annual maintenance. People assume that since the furnace is not being used, annual maintenance is not required and that is exactly where the problem starts. Even if you have not used the furnace for the entire year, annual maintenance is a must. Before turning on the furnace make sure that you get it professionally inspected. This will reduce the chances of the furnace being damaged if something were to be stuck in there.
Check The Vents And Heater
Before using the furnace make sure that the vents and heating equipment are not covered or blocked. It is often the case when people cover their outer units and forget to remove it when it is time to use the air-conditioner or the furnace. In addition to that, people tend to obstruct and block the heating system as well that reduces the efficiency of the furnace and encourages high electricity bills. Therefore, perform an inspection and make sure anything that might be obstructing the furnace is removed.
Check For Window Cracks
If you have cracks in your window or windows, the house will not retain heat. As a result, you will have to keep the furnace turned on for long hours without being aware of cracks existing in the windows. Ultimately, you will end up with high electricity bills that could have been avoided otherwise. Therefore, thoroughly check for cracks or leaks in the windows and doors before you turn on the furnace.
Check The Ductwork
Although ductwork is designed to last long but sometimes cracks and damage could occur causing the heat to escape before it ever reaches you. Even if it is a small crack or damage, you get it immediately fixed. While you are it, perform a complete inspection of the ductwork and make sure that it is clean and secure.
Check For Unusual Noises
Once having turned on the furnace you notice that it is making unusual noises or your furnace is struggling to run normally, you should know that there is something wrong with the furnace. Check if the furnace is receiving power or if anything is blocking it. Moreover, check if it is blowing hot air. If you are able to sort out the issue, then you can safely continue using the furnace. However, it is the case otherwise, you will need a professional to come check it out.
Check The Carbon Monoxide Detector Reading
Your furnace should have a carbon monoxide detector. If you do not have already, purchase and get it installed. If the carbon monoxide detector displays a reading above 30, you should turn off the furnace immediately and call a technician for help. Carbon monoxide is a very dangerous gas that can be seriously harmful to you and your family members. Therefore, turn on and test your carbon monoxide detector to make sure that it raises an alarm when something is serious.
Check The Smell
Once you turn on the furnace, it is common that you will smell dust burning. The reason being that over time dust will settle on the furnace and will burn once you turn it on. However, that will be for a few hours. If the burning smell continues for long, you need to turn off the furnace because something is fishy. Try cleaning the ducts and changing the filters. If the problem does not go away, call a technician.
Final Word
As this blog reaches its conclusion, we are sure to have shared everything you need to know about turning on the oil or gas furnace for the first time in winter. Following the steps outlined above will prevent your furnace from getting damaged and keep it running for years to come. You can also hire a furnace repair service Long Island for professional repair and maintenance.