October is Energy Awareness Month and Aire Serv has items every homeowner should check to make sure the furnace and home is ready to handle the colder months of fall and winter. Checking these components will let homeowners know if they need to contact a licensed HVAC technician for further inspection, repair or replacement.

Inspect the ventilation system
Check the ventilation and ductwork for any holes or cracks that may have occurred over time. Homeowners should also inspect to make sure the ventilation is properly secured to the home. A fall furnace maintenance check is also a good time to clean the vents and registers.

Visually go over panel controls and switches
A professional HVAC technician should be contacted for an in-depth inspection of the control panel and switches of the furnace. But, homeowners can do a general inspection of the controls and switches to check for loose connections, corrosion and parts that look damaged.

Check carbon monoxide detectors
Before operating the furnace for the fall and winter months, check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to make sure they are in proper working order. Always put fresh batteries in them and, if possible, test the alarms. It is a good idea to have carbon monoxide and smoke detectors in all the bedrooms of the home.

"It is important to remember that the best way to conserve energy is to have a system that is up to date," said Harvey Multer, owner of Aire Serv of Southern Maine. "October is a great month to start thinking about saving money during the colder months and there are many general maintenance inspections homeowners can do to save on energy during those months."

Inspect fan belts and pulley systems
Though a licensed HVAC technician should do the repairs for fan belts and pulleys, homeowners can visually inspect them to make sure they are not dry, cracked or loose. A loud squeaking sound during start up or operation may indicate the belts or pulleys need to be replaced.

Keep debris away from the furnace
There should be unobstructed access to the furnace. When inspecting the furnace for fall and winter use, make sure to remove any objects or debris close to the system. Objects left too close to the furnace can be a fire hazard.

"When inspecting the furnace before use and notice anything that might be a concern, contact an HVAC professional," said Multer. "Service professionals will be able to tell you if the problem requires immediate attention."

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2014/10/prweb12215896.htm