As winter officially comes to an end, our home’s dependency on the furnace is decreasing. Even if you do not plan on using your furnace throughout the spring and summer months, there are crucial end-of-winter maintenance tasks for your heating system.
For a smooth seasonal transition, follow these steps to prepare your furnace for its spring and summer rest.
Change the Air Filters
Changing your furnace filters is one of the easiest end-of-winter maintenance duties. While you should already be changing the filters every one to three months, changing the filter at the beginning of spring is perfect timing.
A significant amount of dust and debris can accumulate in the furnace filters during winter, so the filters must be completely clean for spring and summer. Even if you are not using your furnace, your HVAC system runs through the filter to distribute cold air in the warmer months.
Test Your Thermostat
Homeowners tend to forget to check the battery in their thermostat, and a low battery can create inconsistent temperatures throughout the house. Test your thermostat at the beginning of each season to make sure it is working correctly.
Inspect Your Ducts
The end of winter is the perfect time to check and clean your ductwork. Ducts can become clogged and will put a strain on your home’s HVAC system, which means poor air quality. To ensure your HVAC system will operate efficiently for the coming months, inspect your ducts.
Repairs and Replacements
Were you satisfied with your furnace’s performance during the colder months? The end of winter is the perfect time to decide whether you need any repairs or a furnace replacement.
Pro tip: Most furnaces should last around 15 years, but once they start getting older, they are mostly wasting fuel and should be replaced. Furnaces older than 20 years operate at about 60 percent efficiency, while newer models operate at more than 98 percent efficiency.
Don’t put off your end-of-season HVAC maintenance any longer. The professionals at Carter Comfort Systems will make sure your home comfort systems work properly all year long. Contact us today to schedule your end-of-winter furnace maintenance.