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Preparing Your Heater for Winter

By September 9, 2016April 1st, 2023No Comments

Winter is Coming!

Now that the pools are closed and the hot chocolate is brewing, it’s nice to come home to a warm cozy home. There’s nothing better than cuddling up on the couch and watching your favorite shows, away from the frigid outdoors. With the cold weather rolling in, we want to make sure your heater is ready to get to work!

First and Foremost!

Considering your heater probably hasn’t been turned on for a few months, it’s important to make sure everything is working and in tip top shape! Make sure you get your unit inspected by an HVAC professional each year before you being used again. It may be a good idea to schedule the inspection a few weeks or even a month before you intend to start using it again. That way, you don’t have to be part of the rush when the professionals are all booked up. This also avoids you from freezing if your heater does need to be fixed and if you catch it early, you won’t have to deal with the discomfort. Inspecting your unit not only saves you money but protects your family.

What you can do?

Here are a few things you can do to get your heater prepared for the changing weather.

  • Replace your air filters: You should be checking and replacing your air filters every few months. It might be a good idea to stock for the winter, too. This way, you can change them quickly to keep your heater running as effectively and efficiently as possible.
  • Clean air vents and ducts: Over time, dust accumulates on your vents and ducts. When you turn your heater on, the dust can burn up causing smells and possibly exposing you to carbon monoxide. You can use your vacuum or duster to clean your vents.
  • Test your thermostat: It’s a good idea to test your thermostat to make sure it is working well before the cold weather hits. Change the batteries and keep extra batteries on hand for quick replacement.
  • Oil the motor: Your heater has a motor that turns a fan to move air out of the furnace. The motor needs to stay lubricated or the fan could seize up leading to a costly repair bill.
  • Get gas furnaces refilled: It is cheaper to get the gas refilled before winter hits.
  • Remove anything blocking vents: If your vents are blocked by anything flammable it could cause a fire.
  • Clear space around your heating unit: Your heating unit needs to have enough space to be properly ventilated.

The Lubbock fire department offers a free carbon monoxide testing. They will come to your home and personally test for any damage or carbon monoxide. To find out more about this service and preparing for Lubbock’s winter visit Everything Lubbock.

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