If you’re turning on your heater for the first time after months of warm weather, it’s important to take some precautions. A heater that hasn’t been used in awhile could pose safety risks if not properly inspected and cleaned.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: before turning on your heater after a long period of disuse, check for dust buildup, clean the unit, check for gas leaks if applicable, and turn it on at a low temperature setting at first to avoid overheating.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through all the steps you should take to safely get your heater up and running again after months without use. We’ll cover cleaning and inspection, leak checks for gas heaters, tips for electric heaters, what temperature to initially set your thermostat to, and more.
With the right preparation, you can avoid potential hazards and make sure your home heating system provides cozy warmth all winter long.
Thoroughly Clean and Inspect the Unit
Before turning on your heater after a long time, it is crucial to thoroughly clean and inspect the unit to ensure its optimal functioning and safety. Here are some essential steps to follow:
Clean off dust buildup
Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the heater, leading to reduced efficiency and potential fire hazards. Use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove the dust buildup from the unit. Pay close attention to the vents, grilles, and heating elements.
Look for signs of animals or insects
During the off-season, small animals or insects may find their way into your heater, seeking warmth and shelter. Inspect the unit for any signs of nests, droppings, or damage caused by pests. If you notice any signs of infestation, it is advisable to contact a professional pest control service to address the issue before using the heater.
Check for rust, cracks, or damage
Inspect the entire heater for any signs of rust, cracks, or other damage. Rust can weaken the structural integrity of the unit, while cracks or damage may lead to gas leaks or electrical issues. If you notice any significant damage, it is essential to have it repaired by a qualified technician before using the heater.
Replace filters
Filters play a crucial role in maintaining the air quality and efficiency of your heater. If your heater has reusable filters, clean them thoroughly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If your heater uses disposable filters, it is recommended to replace them with new ones before turning on the unit.
Hire a technician for complex repairs
If you come across any complex repairs or issues that require professional expertise, it is best to hire a qualified technician. They have the necessary knowledge and experience to handle intricate repairs and ensure the safe operation of your heater.
Attempting to fix complex issues yourself can be dangerous and may result in further damage to the unit.
Remember, regular maintenance and proper inspection are key to ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your heater. By following these steps, you can safely turn on your heater after a long time and enjoy its comforting warmth during the colder months.
Check for Gas Leaks (Gas Heaters)
Before turning on your gas heater after a long time, it is crucial to check for any potential gas leaks. Gas leaks can be dangerous and should be addressed immediately. Here are some steps to follow:
Smell around unit for gas odor
When checking for gas leaks, the first thing you should do is to smell around the unit for any strong gas odor. Natural gas is odorless, but an odorant called mercaptan is added to make it easily detectable. If you notice a strong sulfur or rotten egg smell, it could indicate a gas leak.
In such cases, it is important to immediately turn off the gas supply and contact a professional for assistance.
Apply soapy water to gas connections
Another way to check for gas leaks is by applying a mixture of water and dish soap to the gas connections. Start by creating the soapy solution in a spray bottle. Then, spray it onto the gas connections, including the valves, fittings, and pipes. If there is a gas leak, you will see bubbles forming.
This indicates that there is a leak that needs to be addressed.
Look for bubbles indicating leaks
As mentioned earlier, if you notice bubbles forming when you apply the soapy water to the gas connections, it is a clear indication of a gas leak. The size and frequency of the bubbles can give you an idea of the severity of the leak. Even if the bubbles are small, it is important not to ignore them.
Any gas leak should be taken seriously and addressed promptly.
Tighten fittings or replace parts as needed
If you discover a gas leak, it is essential to take immediate action. Tighten any loose fittings or connections that may be causing the leak. However, if the leak persists, it may be necessary to replace certain parts.
It is recommended to consult a professional technician who can properly assess the situation and provide appropriate solutions.
Remember, gas leaks should never be ignored or taken lightly. If you suspect a gas leak, it is crucial to follow proper safety procedures and seek professional assistance. For more information on gas heater safety, you can visit the website of the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org.
Tips for Electric Heaters
Make sure wiring is intact and undamaged
Before turning on your electric heater after a long time, it is crucial to inspect the wiring to ensure it is intact and undamaged. Faulty wiring can lead to electrical hazards, such as short circuits or even fires.
Take a close look at the power cord and check for any signs of fraying or exposed wires. If you notice any damage, it is best to replace the cord before using the heater.
Plug in and check that heating elements glow red when on
Once you have confirmed that the wiring is in good condition, plug in your electric heater and turn it on. Keep an eye on the heating elements to see if they glow red when the heater is operating. The red glow indicates that the heating elements are working correctly.
If you notice that the elements do not glow or there are any other issues with the heater’s performance, it may be necessary to consult a professional or consider replacing the unit.
Consider replacing old or deteriorated wiring
If your electric heater is older or if you notice signs of deteriorated wiring during your inspection, it is advisable to consider replacing the wiring. Old or damaged wiring can pose serious safety risks and may lead to electrical malfunctions.
Hiring a licensed electrician to replace the wiring ensures that the job is done correctly and in compliance with safety standards. It is always better to be proactive when it comes to electrical safety.
Set Thermostat to Low Temperature at First
When turning on your heater after a long time, it’s important not to immediately max out the heat. This can put unnecessary strain on the system and potentially lead to malfunctions. Instead, it’s recommended to start at a low temperature and gradually increase it as needed.
Start at 50-60°F to avoid overheating
Setting your thermostat to a temperature between 50-60°F is a good starting point. This allows the heater to warm up gradually without overheating the system. It’s important to remember that the goal is to achieve a comfortable temperature, not to blast hot air immediately.
Slowly increase over several hours as needed
After setting the thermostat to a low temperature, give the heater some time to warm up the space. As the temperature slowly rises, you can gauge whether it’s necessary to adjust the thermostat further. It’s always better to make small adjustments over time rather than turning up the heat abruptly.
This helps prevent damage from thermal shock
By starting at a low temperature and gradually increasing it, you’re taking precautions to prevent damage from thermal shock. Rapidly increasing the heat can cause stress on the system and potentially lead to costly repairs.
Taking the time to warm up your heater properly can save you from unnecessary headaches and expenses.
Conclusion
Getting your heater going again after a long break takes a bit of care and proper preparation. By thoroughly cleaning, inspecting for problems, checking for gas leaks, and slowly raising the temperature, you can avoid potential safety issues and ensure your unit works properly.
With these tips, you can look forward to effective home heating all winter long. Stay cozy and warm with a safely operating furnace or heater this season!
