Guide to HVAC Maintenance for December

It’s that magical time of year, snow begins to fall, lights twinkle, bells ring and the chill in the air becomes colder and colder. Yup it’s December in the Northeast. With all the hectic activity that December holidays and the New Year brings, be sure not to neglect your Heating system. Here’s some simple HVAC maintenance tips.

• Check your air filter. During periods of heavy heating system use, the filter should be inspected monthly to make sure it has not become full of contaminants. You may find it necessary to replace it sooner than the 3 month mark during these times, so have a replacement ready just in case. To order replacement filters you can go to FilterFetch.com and use this unique SOS reorder code: C4UR.

COLD FACTS: Be sure your Christmas Tree is not near any heating vents. This will cause your Live Tree to dry out pre-maturely – which can also be a fire hazard.

• Inspect all registers and return air grilles in your home to ensure they have not been blocked or shut. These vents should never be blocked, as doing so will restrict airflow through your HVAC systems, which could create performance issues and system overheating. Move all carpets and rugs, furniture, and other items away from vents. Check to see that vent louvers are open; if you wish to shut off heating to unused areas of your home or building, never close more than 20 percent of the structure’s HVAC vents. If you have many unused areas, consider investing in a zoning system which will allow you to reduce energy waste while facilitating proper HVAC system performance.

 

• Keep the area surrounding your heating equipment clear. Never store items directly by the furnace, especially flammable or combustible material such as rags, wood, gasoline, paint, solvent, and cleaners.

 

• Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly throughout heating season. Test batteries each month, using the unit’s TEST button. Vacuum away any dust which has accumulated on the detectors.

 

• Keep exterior vents and chimneys clear of ice and snow. Flue pipes allow the heating process’s combustion byproducts to exit the home or building safely a blockage could cause carbon monoxide to leak indoors. Fresh air intake piping should also be cleared for proper ventilation.

Cold Facts: Keep Chimneys clear from blockage to allow Santa to easily get in and out on Christmas Eve to leave all those nice little presents for the good girls & boys.

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