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While it is hard to predict the exact timing of when winter will arrive, it is important to prepare for the winter season. That’s why it is important to make sure your heating system is in good working order. An annual inspection is an essential part of home winter preparation.

Our technicians will perform a number of checks, including checking the furnace’s size and type, inspecting the furnace parts (like the heat exchanger for corrosion or damage), as well as other things like looking at your filters. Here are a few tips for your annual furnace maintenance to hopefully catch your system before it stops working at the start of the heating season.

Home Winter Preparation Tips Checklist:

Schedule heating tune-up appointment by a professional HVAC contractor

Furnace tune-ups and Air conditioner tune-up services are recommended across the board by all HVAC professionals; it is something you should consider for the readiness and peak performance of your furnace for the cold weather.

Change your Furnace Filter

We always encourage regular furnace filter replacement; most customers tend to neglect to do this on a regular basis. Changing your HVAC air filter is an important and inexpensive step for preventative maintenance in your system; compared to possible costly repairs in the future which could range from $200 to over $500!

Take a moment and test your HVAC system

You can do this by during your system on FAN mode (no heat or cooling), or you can test by turning on the heat. Spend a few minutes after the system has started running in your furnace room and listen for abnormalities (such as noises, squeaks, loud snaps, grinding, etc.). If you do hear any of these things you should contact an HVAC professional, after all, the last thing we want is cold air blowing in the middle of winter, or not blow at all!

Update and set your thermostat schedule

In the final stretch of September, we now notice colder temperatures at night, and most people start using their furnaces again. Platinum Air Care is a Honeywell Contractor Pro; but regardless of the brand of the thermostat, we can always help you program and prepare for the winter season.

Make sure your ventilation system is checked and ready to go

A ventilation inspection is recommended yearly by us, furnace manufactures and is recommended every 6-months in residential facilities across Ontario. This is different from the traditional furnace check most HVAC companies offer, this ensures your ventilation system is safe, not obstructed, or containing contaminants such as mold, or even animal disturbances.

Check your humidifier

Humidifiers aren’t used in the summer because of the excess humidity our climate has. Lots of homeowners experience static and overly dry home conditions in the winter which contribute to other discomforts, but much like furnace filters; most homeowners forget to change their humidifier pad, or check on the system at all!

Check the exterior of your home

Do a thorough check of your home’s exterior to make sure that everything is sealed up tight and will be able to resist the cold temperatures during the coming months. If you have gaps in the exterior, rodents may try and find a place to say for the winter; your home! You should also prepare to cover your air conditioning system if you have and use an AC cover.

Platinum Air Care Inspection & Maintenance Services

If you need help with the above checklist or require some additional information~ we’re always here to help. Give us a call today or click the link below.