How to Prep Your Heating System in Puyallup, WA

Now that autumn is here, many of us are starting to think about the winter ahead. As a homeowner, you need to prepare your heating system properly to take on the cold. We share our ultimate list for prepping your furnace below.

Install a New HVAC Filter

As we transition to a time when you’ll be spending more time indoors, it only makes sense to replace your HVAC filter. This will ensure that it’s ready to start trapping airborne particles and enhancing your indoor air quality. You never want to run a heating system with a dirty filter, as it can greatly reduce its overall efficiency and shorten the lifespan of your furnace.

Schedule Maintenance Service

Another must on the list is scheduling professional maintenance service. You’ll likely find that, as part of the warranty contract for your heating system, you must invest in annual maintenance by a licensed HVAC technician. This is a great way to learn about any potential problems that your system may have and give you peace of mind that it’s ready to take on winter temperatures.

Switch Ceiling Fan Direction

If you’re a homeowner who relies on ceiling fans to help reduce your energy bills, it’s time to switch the direction in which your fan blades spin. During the winter, they should be spinning clockwise to help force warm air at the top of your room outward and back down to the floor.

Program Your Thermostat

Now is the perfect time to program your thermostat to your ideal wintertime setup. First and most importantly, switch from cooling mode to heating mode. Next, be sure to program in specific temperature settings depending on the time of day. For example, you may set a lower temperature during the daytime hours when no one is home. This will go a long way in helping to keep your energy bills in check during the winter.

Check Your Air Vents

It’s vital to check all the supply and return vents throughout your home. You need to make sure that the vent is completely open and that there is nothing blocking its airflow. Each vent should have a clear 3-foot radius around it to allow for adequate airflow in or out.

Test Your Smoke Detectors

Fall is a great time to check the batteries in all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Be sure to push the test button on each detector to make sure it’s working properly. Additionally, check the expiration date on your fire extinguisher to confirm that it’s still useful.

Call a Chimney Sweeping Service

If your heating system burns propane, heating oil, or natural gas, then it will leave residue behind inside your chimney. It’s important to get that residue removed by hiring a professional chimney sweeping service. They’ll be able to alert you of any problems with your chimney so that you can have them repaired before the cold weather hits.

Order Fuel

At the start of every winter, have your on-site fuel storage tank filled up. This applies mainly to homeowners who use propane or heating oil to heat their homes. Most homeowners find it beneficial to sign up for automatic delivery service so that they never run out of fuel during the wintertime. You may even find that some fuel suppliers will offer you a discount on each gallon of fuel if you opt for automatic delivery service.

Take Your Heating System for a Test Run

Finally, give your heating system a test run. Put your hand in front of each supply vent, and make sure it’s producing an adequate amount of hot air. During this time, listen for any odd noises your system may be making or abnormal smells it may be producing. Both of these can signal issues with your system.

Reliable HVAC Maintenance Service

Puyallup Heating & Air Conditioning provides reliable HVAC maintenance service for homeowners throughout the Puyallup, WA area. Our technicians will be happy to help with all your heating, air conditioning, ductwork design and installation, and indoor air quality needs.

Call Puyallup Heating & Air Conditioning now to get more information or schedule a service call for heating maintenance.