If you ever need heating repairs during winter, you really need them. However, the preferable scenario is to avoid heating malfunctions in the first place. Certainly, not all heating problems can be predicted in advance nor always averted. However, there are still several measures you can take to make the need for heating repairs less likely and/or less costly. Here are a few things that can help you avoid the unexpected loss of comfort some cold winter day or night.

• Schedule seasonal maintenance. Preventing heating malfunctions is always preferable to dealing with them when you least expect it. Annual maintenance for your heating system that’s performed by a certified technician includes a list of manufacturer-recommended service procedures to ensure that the system is operating efficiently, wear and tear on components is minimized, and all safety functions are working as they should. This also allows the technician to check for incipient issues that may inhibit proper heating or cause a total breakdown when you least expect it. Also, if the system is still under warranty, a record of annual maintenance is likely required to keep the warranty valid.
• Replace the system air filter. A dirty, dust-clogged air filter reduces the volume of heated air circulating through the house. This makes the system run harder and longer to maintain thermostat settings which, in turn, raises operating costs and inflicts more wear on components. Your HVAC service provider can give you advice on what type of air filter to install in your system and how often it should be replaced.
• Be alert to symptoms. The earlier you identify a problem and get heating repairs done, the better. Things such as unusual noises emitted by the heating system, room temperatures that don’t correspond with the thermostat setting and higher monthly costs on your electric or gas bill that have no obvious explanation are all reasons to get qualified service before these issues become major problems or the system breaks down entirely.

The best heating repairs are those that are never required in the first place.  Ask the experts at Jackson & Sons for more information about professional service for your heating system this winter.