A furnace.

Steps to Take Before Turning Your Furnace on for Winter

The colder months are quickly approaching, so it's time to start thinking about turning on your furnace. Before you do, there are a few steps to take. One of the most important things to do before winter comes is to ensure your furnace is ready to go. Today, Jack Frost Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC will be sharing a few steps you should take before turning your furnace on:

Clean or Replace Your Air Filter

A clogged air filter can cause all sorts of issues for your furnace, including decreased efficiency and even a breakdown. That's why it's critical to ensure your furnace filter is clean and in good condition. A dirty or clogged filter can cause your furnace to work harder than necessary, which can lead to increased energy costs and even damage to your furnace.

Depending on the type of furnace you have, you should change the filter every one to three months. Some filters are even designed to be replaced every 30 days. If you're unsure how often to change your furnace filter, Jack Frost Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC is here to help! Changing your furnace filter is a simple task that anyone can do, and it can make a big difference in your furnace’s performance.

Inspect Your Ducts for Leaks

A small leak in your ductwork can cause big problems, including decreased efficiency, higher energy bills, and even health problems from poor air quality. Duct leaks are one of the most common problems in homes with forced-air heating and cooling systems. These leaks can occur anywhere in the ductwork, but are most common at joints and connections. Leaks can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor installation, damage from rodents or other pests, and age-related wear and tear.

If you suspect that your home has duct leaks, there are a few things you can do to check for them. First, take a look at your energy bills. If you notice that your energy costs have been rising even though your usage hasn't changed, it could be a sign that you have duct leaks. Another way to check is to look at the ductwork itself. If you see cracks, gaps, or other openings, it's likely that there are leaks.

Check Your Thermostat Settings

Many people don't realize that there is a right and wrong way to set their thermostats. One of the first things you should do is check your thermostat settings and make sure it is set to “Auto” and not “On.” If your thermostat is set to “On,” it will constantly run during the day, which will overwork your furnace and force it to generate heat when it doesn’t need to. Setting your thermostat to “Auto” means it will only cycle on when it’s time to generate heat. The best way to save energy and stay warm is to set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature for your household and not adjust it too much.

Schedule a Tune-Up

Scheduling a professional tune-up is one of the best things you can do to prepare your furnace for winter. A tune-up will help ensure that your furnace is running at peak efficiency. It will also help identify any potential problems that could cause your furnace to break down during the winter months. Most furnaces need to be serviced at least once a year. However, if your furnace is old, you might need to have it serviced more frequently. This is because furnaces tend to become less efficient as they age.

Jack Frost Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC wants you to be comfortable in your home this winter, which is why we’re here to help with all of your furnace needs. If you need to schedule any furnace repairs or maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact us by giving us a call at (973) 520-0505.