Preventative Maintenance: 3 Best Tips to Avoid Heater Breakdowns

Heaters provide crucial warmth during the winter months, preventing issues like frozen pipes on top of keeping everyone in the household comfortable. If a heater breaks down, it can end up causing a significant amount of damage before it’s repaired. Homeowners can take steps to prevent this and to keep their heaters running throughout the summer. The three top tips for preventing the heater from breaking down include the following. 

Have Maintenance Done Regularly

Professional maintenance should be done regularly to prevent a broken heater. During a maintenance service, the professional will do a complete inspection of the heating system. They will look for any parts that are worn and need to be replaced or anything that’s damaged and needs to be repaired. They can also provide advice to help keep the heater running during the winter, keep the home comfortable while minimizing energy costs, and more. 

Change the Filter and Keep the Unit Clean

The filter should be changed regularly to make sure it can function as intended. This helps to trap potential contaminants from getting in the HVAC system while still allowing air to flow freely. It is important to make sure the filter is the correct size and style for the HVAC system. Those who are unsure how to change their filter can get advice from a professional to make sure they can do it correctly. Along with changing the filter regularly, it is important to make sure the unit is clean, as a dirty HVAC system can be dangerous and may be less efficient. 

Check the Ductwork for Potential Issues

At least yearly, it is a good idea to check the ducts in the home for potential issues. Homeowners will want to make sure the ducts are clear of anything that could block airflow and check to make sure there aren’t any rips, tears, or other damage to the ducts. If there is a lot of debris in the ductwork, it may be a good idea to have the air ducts cleaned. If they are damaged, it is important to have them repaired quickly to make sure the air can be pushed through the home to keep it at a comfortable temperature. 

What to Do if it Does Break Down

Despite proper care, heaters can still break down. If it does break down, it is a good idea to turn it off temporarily to prevent further damage to the system. Contact a professional right away so they can take a look at the system and see what needs to be done to get it working again. It is also a good idea to call for help if the heater is experiencing any issues. This could include strange sounds or smells, using more energy to keep the house comfortable, or turning on and off rapidly instead of slowing heating the home. 

It is important to make sure the heater is in good shape and ready to work. This can help keep it from breaking down when it’s needed during the winter months. If it does break down or you need help inspecting and repairing the system to prevent possible issues, contact an expert for help. They’ll be able to do a thorough inspection and make sure the heater is properly maintained so it won’t be as likely to break down.