28 Mar How to Shut down Your Furnance for Spring
Even if it doesn’t feel like it, spring is here, and warm weather is approaching. Your furnace did a great job of keeping your home warm during winter, but it’s important to shut it down for spring and summer. Turning it off actually conserves energy and saves you money. In case you didn’t know, these are the steps you should take to properly shut down your furnace for spring.
Turn off the Pilot Light
Most gas furnaces have pilot lights that are always lit, but turning them off helps save you money on your utility bills. Locate the valve that goes to your furnace on your gas line, and turn the handle until it’s at a 90-degree angle to the pipe. Once it is, your furnace will be completely shut off.
Change & Clean the Filters
Figure out what type of filters your furnace uses and if they are in the vents or the furnace itself. While some filters are reusable and can simply be cleaned, others need to be replaced entirely. You should clean or replace your filters every one to four months to keep them working properly.
Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detector
Over time, your furnace’s combustion chamber can develop cracks that you might not be able to see. These cracks could allow for carbon monoxide leaks, so it’s important to ensure your carbon monoxide detector is functioning properly once you shut down the furnace.
Fully Inspect the Furnace
Before you finish shutting down your unit, inspect the pilot light, motor bearings, burner assembly, and heat exchanger. This is especially important if your furnace is an older model that might need to be replaced soon.
Contact the Professionals
It’s always a good move to call a professional to inspect your furnace and perform any necessary repairs or more difficult maintenance. The pros can also make sure your furnace will be in good working order when the colder months roll back around.
Wahl Family Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing can help you shut down your furnace for spring and perform any necessary furnace repairs or maintenance you need. We have been serving the Pittsburgh metro area for over 25 years and promise you the best service possible. For help with your furnace, call us at (412) 265-2662