DIY tips to prepare your furnace for winter

Check/change your air filters

The air filter allows your furnace to blow clean, quality air throughout your home. Protecting your home from all the dust, pollen, hair, and other particles is nasty work, which is why experts recommend replacing your air filters every three months. When you’re out shopping or ordering air filters online, make note of the dimensions on the side of your current filter to ensure you buy the right size.
 

Inspect your pilot light

The pilot light is the spark that makes the whole unit hum. If you remove the cover panel and see there is no flame, you’ll have to relight your pilot light. If you see an almost-exclusively blue flame it means your furnace should kick on without issue, while a yellow flame indicates your furnace might not have the power to heat the whole house.

The color of your pilot light may be affected by dust and debris, so you’ll want to run a vacuum around the pilot to ensure your unit will work properly.
 

Clear the drainage pipe

It’s completely normal for a working furnace to produce water in the course of duty. While some water converts to steam, the remaining liquid drains into a drip pan residing outside the furnace. Clearing any clogs or blockages will allow water to properly drain and avoid backing up into the furnace, which could result in several expensive complications.
 

Vacuum your vents

Your vents accumulate dust and debris over time, which can lead to air quality issues from a buildup of pollen and mold spores. To prevent this, periodically pull the vent covers off and vacuum out your air ducts.
 

Check your ducts for leaks

A leak in your air duct could mean higher energy costs and colder rooms while your furnace works harder to heat your home. Check for visible signs of damage or gaps in your ductwork—look for disconnected joints, tears, or holes. Listen for hissing or whistling sounds that may indicate air leaking. You can also run your hand along the ducts while the system is running to feel for any air escaping. If you find any, most duct leaks can be fixed with silicone caulk and/or metal tape.
 

Listen for any unusual noises

Rattling or banging sounds coming from your unit can be a sign of deeper issues, possibly requiring the expertise of an HVAC technician.

While you can perform some maintenance on your furnace and run these routine checks, having a professional inspection once a year can help ensure your unit stays running efficiently year-round. These tips along with your annual inspection can help cut down on high-cost issues down the road, and make sure you stay warm and toasty all winter long. 
 

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