by Diane Callahan

Created on: December 15, 2008   Last Updated: December 18, 2008

To most people, the seasonal transition from summer to autumn brings to mind back-to-school activities, Halloween and falling leaves. For the homeowner, this is also the time when a yearly home heating inspection should be performed. It is an important maintenance task that should be completed before the weather turns cold, so getting it done during September or October will leave you worry free for the cold winter months to come.

Of course, it is important to get a professional home heating inspection at least once a year. But there are things you can do yourself that will help keep your system running at optimum efficiency and make sure your home is safe and warm for the winter.

FURNACES

One of the easiest steps to take in your yearly home heating inspection is to change your filters. Heating technicians regularly report that more than half of their service calls are due to simple dust and dirt clogging up vital motor parts. Not only that, but making a filter change part of your yearly home heating inspection can save you money in the long run by maximizing your furnace's operating efficiency.

Disposable filters need to be changed once a month, so during this home heating inspection be sure to include the purchase of 12 new filters on your checklist. This will ensure you have the filters on hand in the coming months, making it more likely that you will change them as required. Some systems have reusable filters; these should be cleaned every other month. Check your manufacturer's specifications and guidelines.

Clean out excess rust flakes, called "scales", that accumulate at the bottom of the furnace housing. Scale can fall on burners and restrict gas flow. Over time it can damage your furnace by harboring moisture, creating more rust. In between service visits, use a vacuum to remove any scale you see accumulating, as well as any visible dust or lint.

For gas furnaces, take a look at the pilot flame. It should be steady and blue. If it sputters or shows even a trace of yellow, it means your burners are not operating properly. It is important to know that improperly running gas furnaces can produce deadly levels of carbon monoxide fumes. Therefore, be sure to place carbon monoxide monitors near living and sleeping areas of the home. Never place them near the furnace as it could give false readings as well as making it difficult to hear the alarm.

BOILERS

Boiler systems need regular professional maintenance to keep them operating efficiently since there is a danger

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