As the crisp air of autumn settles in and the days grow shorter, it’s only a matter of time before the full force of winter arrives. Before the temperatures drop too far, it’s essential to make sure your home’s heating system is ready to keep you warm and comfortable. Testing your heat before the cold weather hits not only ensures your system is working properly but can also save you from emergency repairs and high energy bills during the coldest months. In this blog post, the experts from Absolute P&M Services will share how to do this.
Start with a Simple System Check
The first step in preparing your heating system for winter is to turn it on and observe how it performs. Set your thermostat to “heat” and raise the temperature a few degrees above room level. The system should kick on within a minute or two. If you don’t hear the familiar sound of air blowing or your boiler igniting, you may have an issue that needs attention. It’s also a good time to replace thermostat batteries if you haven’t done so recently. This small task can prevent frustration later when your system fails to respond due to low battery power.
Listen, Smell, & Feel for Clues
When your heater first runs after months of inactivity, it’s normal to notice a faint burning smell. This is usually just dust burning off internal components. However, if the odor persists or smells like something electrical or smoky, it could be a sign of a more serious problem. Listen for unusual noises such as banging, rattling, or screeching—these could indicate issues with the blower motor or internal parts. Check each room to make sure warm air is circulating evenly through the vents or radiators. Cold spots could mean there’s a blockage or leak in your ductwork.
Inspect & Replace Filters
One of the most common reasons a heating system underperforms is a dirty or clogged filter. Before winter arrives, inspect your air filter and replace it if necessary. A clean filter helps your system run more efficiently, improves air quality, and reduces strain on the blower motor. If you have pets or allergies, consider using a higher-quality filter and replacing it more often throughout the season.
Check for Carbon Monoxide Safety
Safety should always come first when dealing with heating systems. If you have a gas furnace or boiler, make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly and have fresh batteries. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly if not detected. Testing your detectors is a quick and easy way to keep your home safe all winter long.
Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
Even if everything seems to be working fine, scheduling a professional heating inspection is one of the best ways to prepare for winter. A qualified technician can clean internal components, check for worn parts, and test for efficiency and safety. This preventive maintenance helps extend the life of your system and ensures that it’s ready to handle the coldest nights.
Central Heating Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement & More in Santa Fe, Tomball, Sugar Land, Galveston, Austin & Greater Houston, Texas
Taking the time to test your heating system before winter weather blows in can make all the difference in comfort, safety, and energy savings. A little preparation now with the professionals from Absolute P&M Services ensures that when the first freeze hits, you’ll be cozy inside your home instead of scrambling for emergency repairs. Your future self will thank you for it. Call the professionals from Absolute P&M Services before the cold gets worse.
