Whether you’re staying at home in Galt, CA, and not inviting guests this holiday season or you’re planning to invite your extended family for a holiday feast, it’s important to make sure that your heating system is safe and fully functional. During the winter months of the year, malfunctioning heating systems can cause serious negative health impacts. With these three tips, you can safely heat your home this holiday season.
1. Update Your Thermostat Settings
Make sure your thermostat is set to heat. If it’s on auto, and your home is filled with guests or you’re using every burner and the oven to cook, your air conditioning system might cycle. If you’re cooking or expecting more than a few guests, turn the thermostat down a few degrees.
2. Check and Replace the Air Filter
Your heating system’s air filter traps allergens, bacteria and viruses. It plays a big role in your home’s indoor air quality. A dirty air filter hinders airflow into your rooms, and it’s unable to trap any more particles or germs. Check the air filter once a month, and replace it as soon as it’s dirty. Don’t wait for more than three months between air filter changes.
3. Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
A malfunctioning gas furnace could allow poisonous carbon monoxide gas to mix into your home’s air. This combustion by-product usually exists in your home from the flue. A flue obstruction, crack in the heat exchanger or damage to the combustion chamber seal could allow the poison to infiltrate your home’s living areas. Test the carbon monoxide detector monthly, and replace its backup batteries once per year. Also, test the smoke detector monthly and replace its backup 9-volt battery annually.
Hawk Heating & Air Conditioning is Galt’s go-to source for heating system maintenance. We’re also here to provide you with heating and cooling repair, replacement and installation services. For more tips on how to save money and stay safe when heating your home for the holidays, give us at Hawk Heating & Air Conditioning a call.
