We often tend to wait until the last minute before we decide to check if our heating system is working fine to take us through the winters. Worse still, some of us do not even care to check until we actually see a problem when running the heater. However, a little caution and preparedness can save you a lot of trouble during the winters. A faulty heating system can be a pain in the chilly months, and getting it repaired takes some time. So testing it well ahead is always safer.
Need a professional heating and air conditioning contractor to test and service your heating system before this winter season sets in? In the greater St. Louis area, call us at 314-993-1110.
Checklist for Testing Your Heating System Before the Winter
While preparing your home for the cold months, it is best to prepare a checklist for your heating system too, including all the things that you need to get tested. Here are a few important things you should include in the list:
- Check the air filters: The air filter in any heating and cooling system should ideally be replaced every six months. Most of the contaminants and foul smells in the conditioned air root from a dirty or old filter. A clogged air filter also means your indoor air will not get purified by the HVAC unit. So as part of your HVAC system maintenance, it is important to get the air filter of your heating system checked first. You might likely need to replace it or at least get it cleaned before your start using the heating system again.
- Check if the heating system is functioning well: You also need to make sure that your heater is working well in the first place. Turn on the heater for a test run. Turn the thermostat up to a temperature higher than the current room temperature and check if to see if it starts getting warmer. If the heating system does not give out warm air or shuts down before the thermostat temperature is attained, there may be something wrong. Call a professional for help.
- Check the outdoor vents: For your heating system to function normally, it is important that any outdoor vents are clear. Any debris around the outdoor vents like leaves, twigs, trash, etc., must be cleaned. Check if all the lines and piping are insulated and no visible leaks are present.
- Inspect the furnace and check for carbon monoxide: Burning fuel in the furnace often produces carbon monoxide. It is important to make sure that the carbon monoxide levels are within the admissible limits. Excess carbon monoxide production can lead to poisoning and is fatal. Check to see that your carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Also, ensure that there is no leakage of exhaust fumes from the furnace into your living area through the heating system’s blower.
- Check the blower motor and fan belt: Another part of the heating system that often causes trouble is the blower. Make sure that the blower is functioning perfectly. Since it is made up of moving parts, wear and tear is quite common. Test the motor to ensure it runs well. Also, check the fan belt for any damage. It may need to be replaced if you see cracks or tears.
Arrange for Scheduled Professional Maintenance of Your Heating System
The best way to test and prepare your heating system for the winter is by arranging for professional maintenance. A professional HVAC contractor will thoroughly check the entire system, make repairs or replacements where needed and clean the system, making it ready for use. Regular, scheduled maintenance of your HVAC systems increases their lifespan too.
Get Your Heater Tested By the Best HVAC Contractors in St. Louis
The winter months are closing in on us, and cold long nights will be here before you know it. Now is the time to get your heating system tested by professional and experienced HVAC experts. Galmiche & Sons has experience serving homes and offices in St. Louis with HVAC installation, maintenance, and servicing for over 60 years. Contact our heating & air conditioning professionals or connect with us online to learn more about our offerings.
