Let’s face it. It’s Florida. We rarely think about our heaters let alone use them. While the cold winter spell hasn’t hit yet, it is coming.

Making sure your HVAC unit is working properly not just for your AC but also for your heater is important. Us Floridians do not have thick blood and finding yourself freezing during a cold snap is far less than ideal.

Here is the quick and dirty low down that can get your heater going, keep you cozy, and protect your home.

1. THE FILTER: If you haven’t changed your filter – you should. If you can’t remember the last time that you replaced the filter, then it’s been too long. It will save you money down the road and it’s a simple task you can do yourself.

2. THE SMELL: A burning smell is normal at first. The summer dust has settled onto the heating elements. That smell is dust being burned off by the unit. Please note that burning smell should only last a few minutes.

3. FIRE HAZARD: Is the area around your unit clear? You need to check that because it could be a fire hazard if you don’t. It’s far better to be safe than sorry.

4. SMOKE DETECTOR: Change the batteries and test to make sure it works. Clear away any accumulated dust with a soft wet cloth. Heaters are very safe, but you can never be too cautious when it comes to heating elements in your home.

If you turn on the heat and it doesn’t warm up the house or that burning smell stays in the air for more than 20 minutes you may be better off to shut it down and call All Day Air Cooling and Heating at 239-357-0727 or visit us on the web at www.alldayaircooling.com.  We look forward to serving your heating and cooling needs!

The post Turning on Your Heater for the First Time This Year – What to Check Before Hand appeared first on All Day Air.