What's Involved In The Winterization Of Your Heating System
October 19, 2011
If you have a heat pump, the outside unit is going to have to change its program when those temperatures begin to drop outside. You will hear it make some different sounds in the winter than it makes during the warmer months.
If you don't have it checked out before converting to the new season, there is a possibility it will let you down when it is needed most. A certified maintenance technician will do a thorough fall inspection for you and perform the following checks:
* Verification that the outdoor temperature sensors are in their proper location
* Check all wiring connections and repair if necessary
* Check the unit's base pan drains and remove debris that has collected inside the unit
* Inspect the fan blade for damage, rebalance it, and oil the condensing fan and motor
Of course, the outdoor unit isn't the only inspection you need. The following inspections and tune ups on the interior unit should also be performed:
* Inspect filters and electrical connections
* Clean the coil
* Inspect ductwork to see if it requires cleaning
* Oil the blower motor if needed and check bearings to see if they need lubricating
* Inspect blower wheel and clean as necessary
* Clean the drain pan and indoor coil and inspect for problems
* Flush the drain line, and clean and prime the trap
* Run the auxiliary heat strips to check for proper performance
* Verify the staging of elements takes place as necessary and the amperage to the electrical elements is correct
* If the heating unit is gas, check out the pilot light operation and verify that the unit is working correctly
* Check for gas leaks on a gas furnace
Additionally inside the house, the technician should check the thermostat connections and be sure that it is working properly and the temperature settings are accurate.
If you choose not to have your HVAC system checked at the change of the seasons, your health could be in jeopardy and/or the unit may not be operating at top efficiency. If you smell something burning the first time or two that your unit heats up, it is in indication that there may be dust and debris inside the heating chamber, which should be cleaned promptly to prevent a fire hazard.