Turning on your furnace for the first time this season? This cold snap in Central Florida has many people turning on their heat for the first time, and with that comes the realization that your system is not clean and healthy.Â
Sometimes that strange smell you get when you first turn on the heating system is just burnt dust, but sometimes it could be a sign of mold or other microbial growth in your system. Keep your family healthy and safe by following some of our tips below, or give Ultimate Environmental Solutions a call to have your HVAC system inspected and tested. Here are some tips to ensure your system is working properly:’
1. Check your system intakes and filter. Check around your central unit, the air intake vents, and your filter to ensure there is nothing blocking the airflow, and that there are no signs of dust or microbial growth on the unit or vents.
2. Change or clean your filter. If your air filter is disposable, remove it and install a new one of the equivalent size, type, and MERV rating. If the air filter is reusable, clean it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, and reinstall it.
3. Be aware of any odors. Any abnormal odors coming from the unit could be a sign of dust, mold, or microbial growth. Be sure to check the unit to ensure that there is no smoke or fire coming from it. If the odor does not dissipate after a few minutes, it is a sign that your HVAC system may need a tune-up or inspection.
4. Install new batteries in smoke and CO detectors. Test each smoke and carbon monoxide detector using the test button. Clean the vent opening on each detector to ensure that vapors can reach the sensor.