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Heating System Maintenance There are several components to your heating system that all need to be properly maintained. Following these maintenance and energy savings tips will help extend the life of your system and keep it running smoothly. Clean or Replace Filters on Your Heating/Cooling System Check air filters at the start of the heating or cooling season; increase frequency to monthly during the season while in use and replace them as necessary. Make sure all air filters are clean to avoid blowing dirty air throughout your home. Locate the intake grill: this will be the one without the open and close lever on it, and remove the cover. Be sure to take notice of the orientation of filters or interior components and replace them correctly after cleaning. Wash the grill to remove all dirt and dust that may have accumulated. The air that is being pulled into this grill then travels through the ductwork, which may also need to be cleaned. The ductwork can be cleaned with a long rag or a tube with a rag attached to it. Tape the rag to a section of hose or tubing about 5 feet long. Be sure to fasten securely as you do not want to lose the hose in the ducts. You will also need your vacuum and possibly a dust mask. Once you have swept the inside of the ducts with the rag, shake it out and vacuum up the dirt. When complete, replace the intake grill. Electronic filters: Check them monthly and cleaned as needed. Read and follow manufacturers' instructions carefully. Examine inexpensive fiberglass filters once a month during the heating and cooling seasons. Pleated filters can last up to three months but must be replaced after this time. Permanent filters should be washed and rinsed monthly. Bleed Your Radiators to Release Trapped Air The radiators must be bled to release trapped air in the pipes prior to beginning use for the heating season. This is done by opening the valve on the radiator itself, releasing the air/steam until only water comes out. Your radiator should have come with a small "key" for performing this routine. The key will fit into the small slot on the radiator (it will look similar to the air hole you use to pump air into a bicycle tire), which will allow the air and steam to be released. Starting at the upper level of the house, go around to each radiator with a container for catching the water that drips out and bleed each unit. Be careful of the hot water - you are bleeding water that is heating your house and may be very hot. For further instruction and illustrations, visit the Do It Yourself Network. Turn the Pilot Light Off When Not in Use During the cooling season, you do not need to keep the pilot light burning on your heating system. When turning them off, follow manufacturer's instructions, which should be printed on the outside of the furnace. Follow the instructions for relighting and follow carefully. If you cannot locate the instructions, ask a dealer how to turn off and relight pilot lights. Pilot lights on most gas appliances such as stoves and dryers also contribute to the cooling load. You can shut off unnecessary pilot lights and light by hand when needed. Additional Tips for Saving Energy with your Heating System:
There are many projects you may be able to complete to improve your home. However, some projects may be too complex or dangerous for the untrained person to perform. It may be necessary to bring in a certified energy auditor or other specialized contractors. Multifamily rehabilitation projects in particular may require the help of a trained professional. ENERGY STAR provides information for Finding a Professional Energy Efficiency Contractor.
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