GA Homeowners: Tips for Protecting Your Heating During Freezes

Following an unusually cold Thanksgiving, Georgia homeowners can expect to use their heating throughout winter and well into January. To reduce the risk of unexpected failures, here are six steps you can take to safeguard your system as temperatures drop. That way, you and your family can stay safe and cozy all season long. 

1. Change Your Air Filters Regularly

While air filters are often overlooked, they make a big difference when it comes to your furnace. When air filters get clogged, your system has to work overtime just to push air through. That can result in higher energy bills for you and more wear and tear on your furnace. Replacing your air filters every 1 to 3 months can improve airflow and reduce the strain on your furnace. Plus, fresh air filters can help those living with allergies since they remove dander and pollen from the air. 

2. Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors

If you rely on a gas furnace, make sure you’re checking your carbon monoxide detectors regularly and replacing the batteries. If something goes wrong inside the system, it can release carbon monoxide. This colorless and odorless gas can be life-threatening in high amounts. In high amounts, it can become life-threatening in just minutes. Keeping those detectors in working order is one of the simplest ways to stay safe.

3. Test Your Sump Pump

Having your sump pump tested routinely helps prevent failures and lowers the likelihood of water damage. Just like any other HVAC component, sump pumps can experience wear and tear over time. If it fails, your sump pump could cause water to back up into your home or basement. Fixing water damage can be expensive and time-consuming. Testing your sump pump can help catch problems before they lead to failures, saving you time and money in the long run.

4. Keep Your Vents and Registers Clean

Dirty vents and registers can obstruct airflow, which makes your heating system less efficient. An inefficient system can lead to higher energy bills and unexpected shutdowns. To protect your system, you can vacuum your vents and registers. By sucking up any excess dust, you lessen the chances of wear and extend the lifespan of your unit. 

5. Clean Around Your Sump Pump or Furnace

Keep the area around your furnace clean and uncluttered. Dust, dirt and stored items can block airflow and affect performance. It’s also important to avoid placing anything too close to the furnace, as it could create a fire hazard. Maintaining a clear, well-ventilated space helps your furnace run efficiently and keeps your home safer.

If you have a sump pump, be sure to keep the area around it clean and open. The pit can collect debris over time, which can lead to clogs. Clearing out dirt, leaves and dryer lint helps prevent blockages that might otherwise require a professional to remove.

6. Get Your Heating System Checked

Regular inspections and maintenance are the simplest way to avoid heating system problems. These visits allow technicians to look over your system and spot any issues that may be developing.

During these tune-ups, HVAC technicians will inspect the:

• Gas and exhaust (furnaces): Trouble with gas lines or venting can lower efficiency and increase safety risks
• Electrical components: Wiring issues can cause system failures and create safety concerns
• Airflow: Weak airflow often signals a problem within your system
• Backup system (sump pumps): The backup system keeps your home protected if the main pump stops working
• Ductwork: Dirty, damaged or improperly installed ductwork can make your heating less efficient
• Thermostat: A faulty thermostat can lead to inconsistent heating

Dealing with these issues early on can stop minor problems from becoming expensive repairs. Regular maintenance also reduces wear on your system’s parts, helping your furnace or sump pump last longer.

Looking for Heating Experts? Call Elite Service Today!

If you're looking for reliable heating professionals, contact our team at Elite Service today. Based in Ellerslie, GA, we provide comprehensive HVAC services throughout the Chattahoochee Valley and surrounding areas. 

To explore our other services, including heating repairs and replacements, call us today at 706-287-5887 or visit our website by clicking the link here.