Preparing Your Furnace For the New York Winter

The fall season is flying by and the winter is shortly over the horizon. This means it is time to get serious about the current state of your furnace. If you decide to leave it as is, you are making a mistake and taking a chance that you might lose heat at the most inopportune time of winter. Applying these maintenance tips to your weekend routine could go a long way in providing long lasting heat to get you through the cold. 

Your Maintenance Tools

• Filters 
• Vacuum 
• Screwdriver 
• A Helping Hand 

Maintenance Checklist 

1. Similar to a central air unit, a furnace needs to maintain a clean filter for maximum efficiency. The first thing you'll need to do is remove that filter and exchange it for a new one. Make sure that when you install it, the arrows are facing the same way as the filter you just removed. 
2. If you're in the maintenance mood, you might as well upgrade that old filter of yours. Try using a HEPA filter this season and see if you notice the difference in air quality.
3. The next thing you'll need to do is clean out the vents and ducts. Over time, these areas can suffer from dust build up and collect debris that will impede air flow. Cleaning this area is fairly simple. All you have to do is remove the plate with a screwdriver and vacuum up whatever is inside. It can get narrow, so you might want to use the extension to get a full clean.
4. Don't put your screwdriver away, you'll need it for this next step. You're going to want to remove the steel plate that is covering your main air handler. Once you've done this, locate your blower belt (the big rubber thing) and make sure it isn't cracked or loose. If it does appear to be waning, call in the professionals and let them have a look. 
5. The last step is to check on the exhaust flue that carries unwanted air out of your home. Make sure it is free of obstructions so that you avoid dangerous blockages.  

At Nassau County Plumbing and Sewer Rooter, we are more than just a plumber. We have been providing quality heating and plumbing service to the Nassau County area for over 50 years and we are look forward to another season! 

To schedule service, call 516-874-7937 or visit us on the web!