How To Save Yourself From Winter Heating Repairs

Getting through the seasonal cold is enough of a hassle without having to worry about the impending threat of needed heating repairs. Thankfully, there are plenty of steps that homeowners can take to prepare their heating systems for a stress-free season, reducing their likelihood of experiencing a breakdown so they can remain warm and cozy all winter.

The heating specialists at AIS Heating & Air Conditioning share some important tips on how you can save yourself from winter heating repairs and enjoy reliable comfort all season long.

Regular Maintenance & Checks

Before the winter weather takes full effect, it’s important to take the time to ensure your system is optimized to handle the increased demand. Here are a few heating maintenance checks you can perform on your own to keep your system working smoothly this season:

• Change Your Air Filter: Clogged filters can result in reduced system efficiency and poor airflow. Be sure to clean or replace your air filters at the start of each heating season, swapping them out at regular intervals (usually once every 90 days) to ensure proper airflow and energy efficiency.
• Clean Vents & Registers: Obstructions in your vents and registers can also cause your heating system to work harder than it needs to satisfy your comfort demands. Clean your vents and registers regularly to prevent this problem from causing premature breakdowns in your system.
• Test Your Thermostat: Sometimes a perceived problem with your heater is actually an issue with your thermostat. Take the time to test your thermostat before the heating season, replacing batteries as needed and ensuring your system is calibrated properly.
• Check Switches & Motors: Regularly inspecting the switches and motors for signs of wear, damage, and loose connections can help you avoid unnecessary repairs. Listen for unusual noises and vibrations during operation, as these could indicate potential issues with mechanical components.
• Learn Your Furnace Codes: Each furnace comes equipped with special codes and warnings designed to help you catch repair needs early and prevent further damage. Familiarize yourself with these codes so you can act at the first sign of needed service.

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Preventative Measures

Along with the aforementioned DIY heating maintenance tips, you can further protect your equipment with the following preventative measures:

• Check the Intake & Exhaust Pipes: Take a moment to inspect the intake and exhaust pipes on your furnace for obstructions such as debris or nests, which can impede airflow and cause operational issues. Ensure that these pipes are securely attached to your heating system and are vented properly to ensure safe, reliable operation.
• Clear Away Debris: It’s important to keep the area around your outdoor unit free and clear of debris as this can hinder airflow and cause your system to become overworked. Remove any leaves, branches, and other outdoor elements that might be restricting the airflow for your furnace.
• Weatherize Your Home: Ensuring that your home is properly insulated is a great way to minimize air leaks and prevent energy deficiencies from raising comfort costs in your home. Add weatherstripping to doors and windows, and replace insulation as needed to keep your home protected from unwanted thermal transfer that can cause your system to work harder than necessary.
• Don’t Push Your System Too Hard: According to a study from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the ideal indoor temperature during the winter is 68 degrees F. At this temperature, your heating system will satisfy your comfort needs without getting overworked.

Professional Care

The best thing you can do to prepare your system from the heating season is schedule an annual maintenance visit with a professional HVAC technician. During a heating tune-up, your HVAC technician will be able to identify repair needs early, catching problems before they escalate into catastrophic damage to your equipment. It’s recommended that you schedule a heating maintenance appointment at least once annually, usually at the start of fall to avoid the seasonal rush.

Along with booking a maintenance appointment, it’s important to be on the lookout for the signs of needed service so you can address them quickly. Here are a few telltale signs to look out for that indicate it’s time for heating repair:

• Cold spots in the home
• Gaseous, burning, or mildewy odors
• Grinding, banging, or clanking noises
• Total loss of heat
• Yellow or flickering pilot light

Trust the Heating Repair Experts at AIS Heating & Air Conditioning

If it’s been longer than one year since your last heating maintenance appointment or you’ve noticed the signs of needed repair, AIS Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. Our team delivers the comprehensive heating solutions that Fremont families need to keep their systems running reliably all winter long. With nearly 20 years of local service experience and a team of Diamond Certified technicians, you can rest assured that you’ll receive the most professional, high-quality heating services your home deserves.

Schedule heating repair or maintenance in Fremont, CA by calling our team at (510) 792-4328 today!