Preparing Your Home for Winter

house in the winter

Regular maintenance along with periodic checkups by a licensed heating professional are essential for continued safe and efficient operation of your furnace. But don’t wait until the first cold snap hits to make sure your furnace is ready for winter. Keeping your furnace clean and well-maintained improves both safety and efficiency, so you gain greater piece of mind and lower gas bills.

Here are some simple steps you can take to help maximize the performance of your furnace and stay safe:

  • Have your gas furnace checked at least once a year by your local gas company or a licensed heating contractor.
  • Clear away dust, lint, newspaper and any other obstructions found in or around your furnace. Such items can block the flow of air needed by many gas furnaces to operate.
  • Check the air filter monthly for lint build-up during the heating season and clean or replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • When installing a new filter, be sure to reinstall the furnace front panel door so it fits snugly. Never operate the furnace without the front-panel door properly in place. Doing so may create the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Check the appearance of the furnace burner flame. If it’s yellow, large and unsteady, the furnace needs immediate inspection by a qualified professional.
  • Install a carbon-monoxide detector that has been approved by Underwriters Laboratories. Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas. The best way to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide exposure is to make sure your gas appliances are properly installed, maintained and used.

Source: Southern CAlifornia G&S Company

Copyright ©2008 Star Marketing and Administration, Inc. Information in this newsletter may not be reproduced in whole or in part without permission from Starmark. The articles contained within this newsletter are not a promise of coverage and are not meant to replace professional medical advice or service. Personal health issues should be discussed with your physician. Refer to your Certificate of Insurance or Policy for benefit information.