Keep Warm This Winter: Furnace Maintenance Tips for Colorado Springs
We know that the second those temperatures start dropping into the teens and single digits, your furnace isn't just a machine—it's the most important piece of equipment in your home. At Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical, we're not just about fixing problems; we're about preventing them.
When winter hits El Paso County, you need confidence that your heating system won't quit on the coldest night of the year. That's why we put together this essential list of furnace maintenance tips you can handle yourself, along with a reminder about the professional service that keeps your warranty valid and your family safe.
Your DIY Pre-Winter Furnace Checklist
These are the three things every homeowner in Colorado Springs should do before the constant cold sets in. They’re simple, fast, and will save you money.
1. Change That Dirty Air Filter (Seriously!)
If we could drill one thing into every customer's head, it’s this: A dirty filter is the #1 reason for a furnace failure.
When your filter is clogged with dust, pet hair, and debris, your furnace has to work harder to pull air through, which skyrockets your energy bill and often leads to the system overheating and shutting down.
Our Recommendation: Check your filter monthly, and replace a standard fiberglass or pleated filter every 30 to 90 days during the heating season. It’s the easiest step to boost your system's efficiency and improve your indoor air quality.
2. Clear All Vents and Air Returns
Your furnace could be running perfectly, but if the warm air can’t properly circulate, you’ll end up with cold spots and a system that runs longer than it should.
The Vents: Make sure all supply registers (the ones blowing warm air) are fully open and completely unobstructed by furniture, rugs, or drapes.
The Returns: The large, grated return air vents are crucial for the system to suck cold air back in for heating. Keep these clear!
The Benefit: By maximizing airflow, you ensure efficient, even heating throughout your entire home.
3. Test Your Thermostat for Accurate Performance
Your thermostat is the brain. If it’s malfunctioning, the entire system is off.
The Quick Check: Switch your thermostat to the "Heat" setting and raise the temperature a few degrees above the current room temperature. Listen for the furnace to kick on and confirm that warm air begins to flow.
Smart Thermostats: If you have a smart or programmable unit, check your settings to ensure your heating schedule is correct. You don't want to be heating an empty house!
The Crucial Step: Professional Furnace Maintenance
While the DIY tips are helpful, they are no substitute for an annual professional inspection. We can’t stress enough how important it is to schedule this service in the early fall before our technicians are buried in emergency calls.
Here’s why you need the pros at Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical to perform your Annual Furnace Tune-Up:
1. Safety First: The Carbon Monoxide Check
A cracked heat exchanger can leak deadly, odorless carbon monoxide into your home. This is not something a homeowner can inspect safely. Our certified technicians will meticulously inspect this component, as well as test your gas lines and check for proper ventilation.
2. Efficiency and Longevity
We get the most life and performance out of your unit. Our tune-up includes:
Cleaning the Burners: We ensure clean, blue burner flames for optimal combustion.
Lubricating Moving Parts: Reducing friction prevents wear-and-tear and extends the lifespan of the blower motor and other components.
Checking Electrical Connections: We tighten any loose wiring, which prevents shorts, system failures, and potential fire hazards.
3. Maintaining Your Manufacturer’s Warranty
Did you know that most furnace manufacturers require annual professional maintenance to keep your warranty valid? Skipping this step could leave you paying full price for a major repair or replacement down the road.
Don't Wait for the Breakdown!
A furnace will almost always break down when it’s working hardest—which is usually during the coldest week of the year. When that happens, you’re stuck waiting for emergency service when every HVAC company in Colorado Springs is overwhelmed.
Be proactive. Take care of your filter, clear your vents, and trust the local experts. Call Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical today to schedule your furnace tune-up. We’ll make sure your system is ready to keep you warm, safe, and comfortable all winter long!
