Tips for Your Heater & Vents This Winter As winter comes closer and temperatures begin to drop, homeowners should start checking their HVAC systems. You can ensure that your system is ready to operate safely and efficiently by planning ahead of time. Below are Air Source Mechanical's tips on inspecting heaters and ensuring it's in working order this fall. Heater Maintenance Recommendations Clean Your Heater System Heater service expands beyond system failures or heating repairs at Air Source Mechanical. Some heater and air conditioning systems need to be clear of debris. Dirt and dust accumulating in your system during the summer can also be a fire hazard. A homeowner can clean their heating system by doing the following steps: Residents can use light cloths or paper towels to cover their heating vents. This will help to keep any dust you loosen while cleaning contained. Turn your HVAC system to "fan" mode to assist in moving dust and grime out of your vents so you can vacuum them. Start tapping any exposed ductwork in your home with a broom - this ductwork is most likely in your basement. You can break up any clumps of dirt and dust in the ducts by tapping. Remove the registers you've covered one by one with a vacuum cleaner attachment. Vacuum any loose flyaway dust, then reach into the vents and vacuum as far as your hose will allow. Wipe down the registers at the end of each vent. Individuals should repeat until all the ducts are clean, then turn off their fan. Because fires and carbon monoxide poisoning are more common during the colder months, now is an excellent time to check the status of your detectors. Many homeowners place flame sensors like smoke alarms and detectors as preventative measures for heat pumps. Replace all batteries and press the test button on each device to ensure they all work correctly. Keep smoke or carbon detectors for at most ten years; if you're unsure, it's always better to replace them. Homeowners must also check on the state of their home's thermostat. Weather patterns often fluctuate, so updating and upgrading your system can ensure that your home stays warm this winter. Checking your detectors and cleaning and inspecting your HVAC unit are essential items on your seasonal checklist. Check Vents & Air Filters It is essential to check all air vents and duct systems to avoid fire hazards from build-up and debris. Like a home's heating system, indoor air must emit the optimal heat inside your home. Some homes have a single filter for their entire house. Bigger homes use a furnace or natural gas to help heat their homes—the ceiling where the air flows to the central air system. Residents should check to ensure air ducts are open, wiped down, and clear of dust. Air duct cleaning helps when there is nothing to block the air heat exchange. Likewise, check any air handlers to ensure nothing is stopping them that would hinder airflow. Doing this pre-use check ensures that the hot air that your system produces gets where it needs to go. It is also important to check air vents for any potential leaks. Before the weather turns cold, inspect your home for any areas where cold air can enter or warm air can escape. Some HVAC specialists suggest an assessment of the home before setting appointments. Though some believe this isn't heater maintenance, it benefits your HVAC system to work less. Utility bills can rise during winter, so it is best to conserve energy. Before the temperatures drop, please look over windows and door jams for areas that require weatherstripping or caulking. As part of your routine home maintenance, you should inspect and replace air filters at least once a month to ensure things are operating efficiently. Schedule a Professional Inspection Homeowners should find a reputable HVAC technician to ensure that their heater is winter-ready and free of problems that could cause it to fail when the cold weather arrives. Air Source Mechanical is a reputable Mesquite, TX-based HVAC contractor. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial property services, including installation, repair, replacement, and preventive maintenance.  Customers rely on our qualified team to meet their needs with customized solutions that fit their budgets! Our team responds quickly to calls and provides emergency repair service 24 hours a day, seven days a week.