Before you start planning adventures for the warmer weather, don’t forget to tend to important post-winter home maintenance tasks, one of which should be properly shutting down your furnace.
Here are a few reminders from All Seasons, Inc., one of the best heating and air conditioning companies in the area, to help ensure the proper shutdown of your furnace.
Gas furnaces typically have a standing pilot light, which requires a consistent flow of gas in order to be kept lit. The amount of gas used here may seem small, but it can easily add up over time. To avoid this unnecessary expense, you should consider shutting down your gas furnace. You can do this by simply turning off the gas valve that supplies fuel to the entire system, as well as its pilot light. Once you turn this valve off, the pilot light should go out.
Furnace companies usually recommend for homeowners to have carbon monoxide detectors installed in their homes, especially if they’re using a gas furnace. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas, so it’s not easily noticeable. This is why having CO detectors in your home is very important. Moreover, your CO detectors should always be in good condition. Push the “test” button regularly to make sure it’s working. Don’t forget to do this when you’re testing your furnace before winter and when shutting it down in the spring.
Keep in mind that you should never place or store things next to or near your furnace. For one thing, this can create a fire hazard in your home. Make sure to get rid of any flammable materials nearby, such as oil, rags, cardboard boxes, paint, wood stain and clothes.
In addition, you should vacuum the area surrounding your furnace as well. If this area is full of dirt, dust or lint, there’s a possibility that the intake filter of the furnace could become dirty more quickly.
All Seasons, Inc. is one of the most reputable furnace and electric panel companies in the area. Our team is professionally trained to adhere to industry standards, so they can ensure quality services for you. Call us at (253) 879-9144 or fill out our contact form to request a quote. We serve homeowners in Tacoma, WA.