3 Tips to Prepare Your Furnace for the Off-Season
A furnace is a trusty appliance that keeps your home and family warm throughout the colder months of the year. While it may not get much or any use during summer, that doesn’t mean you should just shut it down and forget about it until fall. You can ensure your equipment is ready when you need it again by scheduling an inspection by a heating contractor and taking some simple steps. Here's how you can prepare the unit for the off-season.
How to Get Your Furnace Ready for Summer
1. Change the Filter
Furnaces and air conditioners have filters in their ventilation systems that catch dust, pollen, pet dander, and other debris, which improves your home's air quality. Over time, these screens can get clogged, inhibiting proper airflow.
Swap out this device at the end of the season for a new one to ensure your furnace operates efficiently as soon as cooler weather returns. If your air conditioner uses the same ventilation system and filter, change it to improve household air quality and appliance function during spring and summer. Change the filter every 90 days or every month if you have pets.
2. Clear the Perimeter
You may be tempted to store extra winter items next to your furnace while it's not in use, but these appliances require oxygen for combustion. As a result, blocking the unit may prevent it from working when you turn it on again. Keeping the area clear also allows you to notice any damage the unit sustains, like cracks or condensation leaks. Removing extra debris also makes it easier for a heating contractor to perform a more thorough inspection.
3. Turn Off the Pilot Light
Older furnaces have pilot lights that continuously burn gas, providing a power source to the heating unit. Consider turning it off when you shut down the furnace, as this may save you some money on gas throughout the summer. If you’re unsure whether your appliance has a pilot light or how to shut it down, consult your HVAC contractor.
In addition to these steps, schedule a professional inspection with the heating contractors at Vashon Heating & Cooling. They will catch any small issues or inefficiencies and address them before the furnace is needed again in the fall. They have been serving homeowners throughout Vashon, WA, and the surrounding areas for more than 35 years. They offer a full array of services and can inspect both the heating and cooling units and provide any necessary repairs. Visit the website to learn more, or call
(206) 463-1777 to receive an estimate.