Whether you’re a new homeowner or a seasoned pro, regular heating maintenance to keep your at-home heating system in top condition all year long is a must. But where do you start?
Don’t worry—this post has got you covered. The following pointers are a seasonal checklist that’ll guide you through the steps to ensure your heating system runs smoothly 365 days a year. Keep on reading.
Understanding Your At-Home Heating System
Not all heating systems are the same, and the type you have will determine the specific maintenance tasks you need to perform. The following is a quick rundown of the most common systems and other helpful information about each one.
Forced Air Systems
Forced air systems use a furnace to heat air, which is then distributed through ducts and vents. Maintenance tasks include but aren’t limited to cleaning the ducts and vents, inspecting the blower motor, checking the heat exchanger, and so on.
Boiler Systems
Boilers heat water to provide steam or hot water for radiators or radiant floor systems. Heating unit maintenance tasks range from bleeding the radiators, checking the water pressure, to inspecting the expansion tank to make sure it’s functioning properly.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling by transferring heat between the indoors and outdoors. Routine maintenance tasks that homeowners like you need to perform include cleaning the coils, inspecting the refrigerant levels, and checking the defrost cycle to prevent any ice buildup.
Radiant Heating Systems
Radiant heating systems for homes make use of heated water or electric coils to warm floors, walls, or ceilings. Maintenance tasks include but aren’t limited to the following: inspecting the tubing or wiring for leaks, cracks, or damage, checking the pump, and testing the thermostat to make sure it’s accurately controlling the temperature.
Before getting into the nitty-gritty of heating maintenance for the whole year, it’s important to know about why heating maintenance is a non-negotiable. Check out the following section for just that.
Understand Why Heating Maintenance Matters
Indeed, your heating system is one of the most critical components of your home, especially during colder months. Without proper care, it can become inefficient, costly to run, or even dangerous.
Regular maintenance helps you:
- Extend the lifespan of your system: A well-maintained heater can last years longer than a neglected one.
- Save money on energy bills: An efficient system uses less energy, which means lower utility bills.
- Prevent costly repairs: Small issues can turn into big problems if left unchecked.
- Ensure safety: Faulty heating systems can lead to carbon monoxide leaks or fire hazards.
Now that you know why full heating maintenance (either carried out by a professional or yourself) is essential, the pointers below will break down what you need to do season by season.
Fall: Prepare Your Heating System for Winter
Fall is the perfect time to get your heating system ready for the heavy workload of the upcoming winter months. Here’s what you should do:
Inspect Your Thermostat
Start by checking your thermostat. Is it working correctly? If you have an older model, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices can save you money by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re not home.
Clean or Replace Air Filters
Dirty air filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder than it needs to. Check your filters monthly and replace them every month or so, depending on usage. If you have reusable filters, clean them thoroughly before reinstalling them.
Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
While there’s a lot you can do on your own, it’s wise to have a professional inspect your system annually. They’ll check for issues like gas leaks, worn-out parts, or carbon monoxide risks. This small investment can save you from big headaches later.
Test Your Heating System
Don’t wait until the first cold snap to turn on your heater. Test it early to ensure it’s working properly. If you notice strange noises, uneven heating, or other issues, call a technician right away.
Seal any Air Leaks
Check windows, doors, and other areas for drafts. Sealing air leaks with weatherstripping or caulk can improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce the strain on your heating system.
Take advantage of the fall season with the abovementioned upkeep tips.
Winter: Keep Your System Running Smoothly
Once winter arrives, your heating system will be working overtime. Here’s how to keep it in top shape:
Monitor Your System’s Performance
Pay attention to how your system is performing. Are some rooms colder than others? Is your heater cycling on and off frequently? These could be signs of a problem that needs addressing.
Keep Vents and Registers Clear
Make sure furniture, rugs, or other objects aren’t blocking your vents or registers. Blocked airflow can reduce efficiency and strain your system.
Check for Possible Carbon Monoxide Leaks
Carbon monoxide is a silent killer. Install carbon monoxide detectors near your heating system and sleeping areas. If your detector goes off, evacuate immediately and call a professional.
Maintain Proper Humidity Levels
Winter air can be dry, which isn’t great for your health or your home. Use a humidifier to maintain comfortable humidity levels. This can also make your home feel warmer, allowing you to lower the thermostat slightly.
Stay on Top of Filter Maintenance
With your system running constantly, filters can get dirty quickly. Check them monthly and replace them as needed.
Remember: regular maintenance during winter will do wonders to your heating system’s performance.
Spring: Transition to Give Your Heating System a Break
As the weather warms up, it’s time to give your heating system a break. Here’s what to do in spring:
Turn off Your Heating System
Once you no longer need heat, turn off your system. This will save energy and give your system a much-needed rest.
Clean Your System
Dust and debris can accumulate over the winter. Clean the exterior of your furnace or boiler, and vacuum around vents and registers.
Inspect Your Ductwork
Leaky ducts can waste energy and reduce efficiency. Inspect your ductwork for leaks or damage, and seal any gaps with duct tape or mastic sealant.
Consider Availing of a Professional Heating System Inspection
If you didn’t have your system inspected in the fall, now’s a good time to do so. A professional can identify any issues that need addressing before the next heating season.
Plan for Upgrades
If your system is old or already deemed inefficient, spring is a great time to explore upgrades. Newer models are more energy-efficient and can save you money in the long run.
Breath new life to your at-home heating unit during the springtime with the maintenance tips above.
Summer: Prepare for the Next Highly-Demanding Heating Season
Summer might seem like an odd time to think about heating, but it’s actually the perfect opportunity to get ahead. Here’s what to do:
Research and Schedule Maintenance
If you didn’t schedule a professional inspection in the spring, do it now. Technicians are less busy in the summer, so you’ll have an easier time booking an appointment.
Clean and Organize Your Utility Room
A cluttered utility room can make maintenance more difficult. Take some time to clean and organize the space around your heating system.
Check Your Heating System’s Insulation
Proper insulation is key to maintaining a comfortable home. Check your attic, walls, and basement for adequate insulation. Adding more can improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.
Upgrade Your Thermostat
If you’re still using an old manual thermostat, consider upgrading to a smart model. These devices can learn your habits and adjust the temperature automatically, saving you money and effort.
Stock up on Supplies
Make sure you have extra air filters, batteries for your carbon monoxide detectors, and other essentials on hand. This will save you time and stress when winter rolls around.
And with that, the whole cycle starts over. Keep on reading to learn more about the various maintenance tasks you can do regardless of the season.
Year-Round Tips for Heating Maintenance
While seasonal maintenance is crucial, there are some things you should do all year to keep your system running smoothly:
Keep an Eye on Energy Bills
A sudden spike in your energy bill could indicate a problem with your heating system. Monitor your bills closely and investigate any unusual changes.
Listen for Unusual Noises
Strange noises like banging, rattling, or squealing could signal a problem. Don’t ignore them—address the issue as soon as possible.
Educate Yourself About Your System
The more you know about your heating system, the better equipped you’ll be to maintain it. Read the owner’s manual, research common issues, and don’t hesitate to ask your technician questions.
Stay Proactive
Don’t wait for problems to arise. Regular and preventive maintenance can detect and address most issues before they spiral out of control and keep your system running efficiently.
Have a Programmable Thermostat Installed
A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day. For example, you can lower the temperature when you’re not home and raise it before you return. This can save you money on energy bills and reduce wear and tear on your system.
Use Ceiling Fans to Your Advantage
Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling—they can also help distribute warm air in the winter. Set your fan to rotate clockwise at a low speed to push warm air down from the ceiling.
Keep Your Home Well-Insulated
Proper insulation is key to maintaining a comfortable temperature and reducing energy costs. Check your attic, walls, and basement for adequate insulation, and add more if needed.
Bear in mind: at-home heating maintenance might seem like a chore, but it’s one of the best things you can do for your home.
Final Words
By following this seasonal checklist, you’ll keep your system running efficiently all year long (regardless of the season), save money on energy bills, and ensure your family’s safety and comfort. Remember, a little effort now can prevent big problems later. So, take the time to care for your heating system—it’s worth it.
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