Preparing Your Furnace for the Coldest Weather in Illinois This Winter

Winter in Illinois can be brutally cold. That’s why you need your furnace ready to work its best before temperatures dip. Getting a heating maintenance check now can save you from big repairs later and ensure your system runs smoothly when you need it most.

At BELOMAN, we work with homeowners in Belleville, IL to keep their furnaces in great working condition and ready for harsh winter weather. Here are some ways to do this.

Change the Furnace Filter

Changing the air filter is one of the simplest and most important ways to prep your furnace for the winter. Over time, filters can get clogged with pests, dirt, dust, and other debris, making your furnace work harder to push air through. This wastes energy and can cause the system to overheat and break down. Changing the filter is an easy, low-cost fix to help your furnace run more efficiently and prevent unnecessary repairs.

For most homes, the filter should be changed every one to three months, especially during the winter when the furnace is used most. Make sure to choose the right size and type of filter for your system — you can find this in your furnace manual or on the old filter itself. If you’re not sure, your HVAC professional can help you pick the best filter for your furnace.

Clean Those Vents

Next, check the vents in your home to ensure they’re clear of any obstructions. Over time, vents can accumulate dust or even get blocked by furniture or other items. If the air can’t flow freely through the vents, uneven heating or even damage to the furnace can result.

Start by walking around your home and making sure all the vents are open and not blocked by furniture or rugs. Vacuuming around the vents may also help remove any dust that has accumulated. If your vents are dirty or haven’t been cleaned in a while, consider hiring a professional to provide a thorough cleaning.

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

Your thermostat plays a big role in ensuring your furnace runs efficiently. If it isn’t working correctly, your furnace may run longer than necessary, resulting in higher energy expenditures. Before the coldest weather arrives, spend a few minutes checking the thermostat settings to make sure everything is operating properly.

If your thermostat is a manual model, try a programmable or smart model. These devices allow you to set schedules so that your furnace runs only when you need it to, saving you energy and money. A smart thermostat can also learn your habits and adjust automatically, providing optimal comfort and efficiency throughout the winter months.

Watch Out for Ductwork

Your furnace relies on ductwork to deliver heated air to your home’s rooms. Over time, ducts can develop leaks or cracks that allow heat to escape, reducing the efficiency of your system. Leaky ducts can also make your furnace work harder.

If you haven’t had your ductwork inspected in a while, hire a professional to take a look. They can check for any leaks, cracks, or blockages in the system and seal them. If your ducts are dirty, a professional duct cleaning can also improve airflow and furnace efficiency. Properly sealed and clean ducts ensure that your furnace doesn’t waste energy and provide consistent heating throughout your home.

Test Your Furnace Pilot Light and Gas Supply

Finally, if you have a gas furnace, checking the pilot light is an important step. If the pilot light is out, your furnace won’t be able to heat your home. You can usually relight the pilot yourself, but if you’re not comfortable doing so, call in a professional.

Additionally, ensure that your gas supply is working properly. If you notice that your furnace isn’t producing heat, or the pilot light keeps going out, it could signal an issue with your gas supply. Call a professional to inspect your furnace and repair any problems.

Call Us Today

With just a few easy steps to get your furnace winter-ready, you can keep it running smoothly and efficiently, ensuring your home stays warm without draining energy. Whether it’s tweaking the thermostat or booking a professional inspection, these small actions will help your furnace last longer and save you some cash along the way. Our team at BELOMAN also offers cooling, plumbing, water heater, and air quality services.

For help with maintenance or any other heating-related services, contact BELOMAN.