Texas weather can be unpredictable, especially in Houston! As the seasons change and temperatures drop, it’s crucial to maintain your household heating system. Many repairs require the help of a professional, but there are some tasks that you can do on your own.
Air Tech of Houston AC & Plumbing strives to keep your home warm during the peak of the winter season! Our professional technicians prioritize the comfort of our clients before anything else. Read on to learn what DIY maintenance you can do and how to determine when an expert should perform repairs.
3 Simple DIY Heater Maintenance Tasks
DIY projects are not just limited to arts and crafts. There are a few projects you can do without needing to call for a professional. A few simple troubleshooting tasks you can perform are:
Replacing The Air Filter
Your furnace air filter is a crucial part of your HVAC system! Filters trap harmful airborne pollutants, which prevents them from recirculating throughout your household air. A few hazardous contaminants that this device captures are:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Dirt
- Bacteria
- Mold spores
These pollutants eventually clog your furnace filter, which can cause issues if ignored. Your unit may begin repeatedly turning on and off in an attempt to adequately heat your home. The consistent short cycling can overwork your heater, damaging the system over time. A filter replacement is an easy way of solving the issue before it grows more severe.
Cleaning The Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor unit is exposed to lots of dirt and debris, especially during weather changes. This exposure can cause your system to become filthy, which may affect its overall performance. Its internal components can become clogged with sticks, rocks and dirt over time. You can clear your outdoor unit of debris with a simple cleaning, helping it function optimally!
Inspect The Burner Flames
Your furnace burner flames should burn a vibrant blue color. If the flames are yellow or discolored, this may indicate a filthy burner. You should not attempt to clean the burners if this is the case, as it can be hazardous! Regardless, monitoring your heating system helps ensure it is operating correctly.
When To Schedule A Seasonal Furnace Tune-Up
Unfortunately, most heating maintenance calls for an experienced technician. Many repairs can lead to hazards if they are incorrectly handled. A professional will inspect your unit during a seasonal tune-up and make sure its components are working and intact. If a problem is present, they will offer you a solution to correct the issue!
Your heating and cooling systems should each receive a professional tune-up at least once a year. It’s recommended that you schedule professional furnace maintenance in the fall before temperatures get too cold. This service will allow your heater to operate efficiently during the winter, keeping your home comfortable.
Stay Warm This Winter With Houston Heater Maintenance
When it comes to your Houston heater, a little TLC goes a long way! Air Tech of Houston AC & Plumbing strives to keep your unit up and running year-round. Our goal is to keep your home comfortable throughout the winter season. Contact us today to schedule your annual heater tune-up!
