(425)200-5630 
Schedule An Appointment As the crisp winter air settles in over Kent, WA, and we start to crave the warmth and comfort of our homes, it’s also a crucial time to turn our attention to our heating systems. Proper heating system maintenance is essential for ensuring a cozy and energy-efficient winter, especially with rising energy costs. By taking some simple steps now, you can prevent costly repairs down the road, avoid unexpected breakdowns in the coldest weather, and keep your energy bills under control.
By following some simple and easy tips, you can ensure your heating system is operating at peak performance throughout the winter season, while not breaking the bank.
Why Get Regular Heating System Maintenance?
Regular heating system maintenance is much more than just ensuring your home stays warm in winter. Here are some key benefits of regular maintenance:
- Improved Efficiency: A well-maintained heating system operates more efficiently, using less energy to produce the same amount of heat. This translates to lower energy bills for you.
- Reduced Risk of Breakdowns: Regular maintenance helps identify and address minor issues before they turn into major breakdowns. This can save you money on repairs and prevent you from being left in the cold during a frigid winter night.
- Extended Lifespan: Proper maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your heating system, saving you money on costly replacements in the long run.
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: A dirty heating system can circulate dust and allergens throughout your home. Regular cleaning helps improve indoor air quality, creating a healthier environment for you and your family.
Essential Heating System Maintenance Tips for Kent Homeowners
- Schedule Annual Heating System Tune-Up:
The most important tip for heating system maintenance is to schedule an annual tune-up with a qualified HVAC technician. During a tune-up, the technician will perform a comprehensive inspection of your heating system, including:
- Cleaning the burner and heat exchanger
- Checking and adjusting system controls
- Lubricating moving parts
- Inspecting flue and venting systems
- Testing safety features
A professional tune-up can help identify and address potential problems before they become major issues or potentially noting when your system is due for replacement.
- Replace Air Filters Regularly:
Your heating system’s air filter plays a vital role in keeping the system clean and operating efficiently. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, reducing efficiency and forcing the system to work harder. Replace your air filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically once a month during the heating season.
- Clear Debris Around Your Heating System:
Debris around your outdoor heating system, such as leaves, twigs, or furniture, can restrict airflow and hinder performance. Regularly clear the area around your outdoor unit to ensure proper ventilation.
- Keep Vents Open and Unobstructed:
Blocked vents prevent warm air from circulating properly throughout your home. Make sure furniture, curtains, or rugs are not blocking your vents. Open all vents throughout your house to allow for even heat distribution. If you are experiencing colder spots in your home, it may be time for a new system.
- Program Your Thermostat:
A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day. By lowering the temperature when you’re away from home or sleeping, you can save energy and reduce your heating costs. Adjustable thermostats have improved over the years with the innovation of smart home thermostats, allowing home owners better control over their homes no matter where they are in the world.
- Consider Upgrading Your Heating System:
If your heating system is old and inefficient, it might be time to consider an upgrade. So, think about the last time you replaced your system? Was it when you purchased the home? Or maybe never if you have recently purchased the home? Newer heating systems are significantly more efficient than older models, which can help you save money on your energy bills in the long run. If your system is over 15 years old, you may want to look into a newer system.
Additional Tips for Kent Homeowners
- Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. A CO detector can help keep your family safe by alerting you to the presence of CO in your home.
- Get to Know Your Heating System: Familiarize yourself with the basic operation of your heating system. This will help you identify any potential problems early on.
At PMG Mechanical, we are your trusted heating and cooling company in Kent, WA. Our team of qualified and experienced HVAC technicians can provide comprehensive heating system. Give us a call today and we can get you scheduled for your winter system maintenance!