4 Ways to Safely Use Your Furnace This Winter

As the temperature outside begins to drop, you may want to crank up the heat on your furnace. However, before you do so, it’s important to take a few precautionary measures to ensure that your Yorktown, VA furnace is running safely and efficiently. Here are four tips to help you out.

1. Schedule a Tune-Up

Like your car, your furnace needs a tune-up each year to ensure it’s running at peak performance. A professional HVAC technician can provide preventive maintenance that includes cleaning your furnace and making any necessary repairs or adjustments. This simple step can prolong your furnace’s life and prevent future costly breakdowns.

2. Change Your Air Filter Regularly

Your air filter helps remove dust, dirt, and other contaminants from the air as it circulates through your furnace. Over time, the filter can become clogged, reducing airflow, and putting a strain on your furnace. To keep your furnace running smoothly, be sure to change the air filter at least once every three months.

3. Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detector

One of the most important things you can do to ensure your safety when using your furnace is to make sure that your carbon monoxide detector is in good working order. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly if you inhale it in large quantities.

If your carbon monoxide detector is more than five years old, you may want to consider replacing it. You should also test it monthly to make sure that it’s functioning properly.

4. Keep Flammable Materials Away From Your Furnace.

Furnaces produce heat and sparks, so it’s important to keep flammable materials, such as newspapers, rags, or wood, away from your furnace at all times. Also, be sure to have working smoke detectors in your home and check the batteries regularly. Taking these simple precautions can help keep your household safe this winter.

Safety is paramount when operating furnaces. Contact us at Lighthouse Mechanical for furnace repair services and any other professional HVAC services you need in Yorktown, VA.