How to Test Your Heating System?

Before the cold months creep in, it is best to be informed how to check your HVAC system to increase your confidence that your heater will keep you warm all winter long. You never want to wake up to frigid conditions in your home because you did not complete the heating check beforehand.

It is important to maintain your heating system regularly and in most cases troubleshooting minor issues is simple and we’re here to walk you through it. No matter what though, if you smell gas or hear strange noises coming from your furnace or heat pump, call an HVAC professional immediately. Otherwise, let’s discuss what steps you can take to perform a heating system check to ensure it is in safe and working condition.

Although we are to leave any repairs to your furnace and heating systems to the professional technicians, there are still preemptive courses of action that can benefit you as a homeowner. Doing a heating check before the winter will help your unit outlast the frigid atmosphere outside and keep you safe and warm on the inside.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

No matter whether you have a gas furnace or a heat pump, the air circulating in your home and through your heating system could be carrying dirt and allergens caused by dust. These pollutants can cause itchy eyes, coughing, sneezing and congestion. Checking on your air filters before the cold sets in addition to scheduling professional cleaning for your system can prevent these contaminants from floating room to room.

Checking the Safety

If your heating system uses oil, natural gas or propane, there could be dangerous chemicals that cause cracks or leaks. Homeowners could uncover leaks of methane, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide by locating cracks in the system that allow these gases to slip out. Carbon monoxide detectors will notify you if the gases enter through your vents when they are working properly as well. Ensure that batteries are working in all of your alarm systems.
Extending the Longevity of the System
Make sure that all debris and furniture is cleared away from the vents in your home and from the outside of your heater which makes it easier for it to function and minimizes any strain on your heat pump or furnace. Clean systems generally last longer and run more efficiently. Scheduling regular cleanings with your local professional hvac company can also prolong the service life as well.

Preventing Breakdowns

Homeowners that test their heating systems can prevent malfunctioning of the system. Looking around for any rusty or worn out parts can avoid putting extra pressure on the heater. If you notice a few components out of whack, you can always call for heating repair in Sacramento, CA.

Reducing Energy Consumption

If there are cracks or leaks in your system, debris and contaminants building up, or you have any damaged parts, your system is overworking. When you check your heating system and restore any of these issues, this will keep your heater working intact and lower your utility bills.

Executing a heating system check can give you faith that you won’t wind up cold and in danger over your heater during the cold months ahead. There are a number of steps to complete before checking the makeup of the unit itself. Start by completing the following checklist.

1. Turn off the power

Turn off the power going to your heater as a safety precaution before investigating anything else

2. Check Connections

Check for loose connections in the electrical wiring and controls that could cause the system to fail or backfire.

3. Check For Clogs

While your system is completely turned off, check that you do not have a clogged or dirty filter as it is the line of defense against any dust, pollen, pet dander and pollutants. If you have a vertical-facing furnace and the air is flowing upward, the filter is located in the top door and if it is blowing downward, check the bottom door.

4. Restore Power

Restore power back and turn your thermostat to heat. If your thermostat does not trigger your heater and you find yourself wondering why my furnace won’t turn on it could be your thermostat. Replace the batteries and make sure you have the thermostat correctly connected to the wall. If your heating system still refuses to activate or you smell oil or gas, contact an HVAC professional for assistance.

5. Test Batteries

Test or replace the batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors, otherwise replace their batteries as they can detect dangerous gas.

Check each compartment of the heating system carefully as the following steps laid out:

There are several benefits to check heating system for any mechanical issues or otherwise:

Saving Money on Repairs: Visually inspecting the system for damage, cleaning air filters, and ensuring proper airflow, homeowners can identify and address minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs. Doing a regular maintenance check can also improve energy efficiency, leading to lower utility bills.

Enjoy cleaner air: A regular heating system check-up can significantly improve indoor air quality. By cleaning or replacing dirty filters, homeowners can remove dust, allergens, and other pollutants from the air. Homeowners should never run their system without an air filter.

Keep your home and family safe: A well-maintained heating system is a safe heating system. By scheduling regular check-ups, homeowners can discern and deal with potential safety hazards, such as gas leaks, carbon monoxide, and/or electrical issues. A clean and efficient system reduces the risk of fire and other accidents, ensuring a safe and comfortable home for the entire family.