If you’re like most people, you’re probably counting down the days until you can finally turn your heating system off. Thankfully, that time is quickly approaching. With Spring just around the corner, it’s time to ready your furnace for the off-season. While it’s tempting to simply turn the system off and worry about it next winter, we highly suggest performing a few easy maintenance tasks before your furnace goes into hibernation.

Change The Filter

As you probably know, changing your furnace’s filter is crucial to your system’s overall health. Even though your heating system won’t be in use until next winter, we suggest replacing the filter at the end of the season. This is particularly important if your home is also equipped with central air. Your furnace and air conditioner use the same air handler, meaning if the filter is dirty from the winter, your air conditioner’s performance will suffer this summer.

Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Homeowners often assume that once their furnace is off for the season, carbon monoxide is no longer a threat. This however is not true. Even when your heating system is not active it can still leak carbon monoxide. To ensure your detectors are still functioning properly, go around your home and test them. If you find any that don’t work, either replace them or buy a new one. You should also consider how old your CO detectors are. Most carbon monoxide alarms last for 5 to 7 years. Once they are older than 7 years they become ineffective. If your CO detectors are around that age or older purchase new ones, immediately.

Make A Performance Checklist

This is the perfect time to create a list outlining your furnace’s overall performance. For instance, did you see a dramatic increase in your heating bill, or when your unit was running was there a noticeable temperature discrepancy throughout your home. Keeping track of your system’s behavior will help prepare you for next season. If your furnace has multiple issues and it’s on the older side you may want to consider replacing the unit before the next heating season begins. However, if you’re not sure whether a new furnace is the best choice for your home, schedule a furnace inspection to find out the overall state of your system before making a final decision.

If you’re concerned with your furnace’s performance and you’re wondering whether it’s time to replace it, please contact us today and we’ll be happy to inspect your heating system and install a new furnace if needed.