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Homeowner guide

Elmwood Park Homeowner's Guide to Heating & Cooling

Easy, safe tips to keep your system running, spot problems early and save energy. These are simple homeowner tasks, not repairs.

Notebook, furnace filter and thermostat on a table

Seasonal checklist

A simple checklist for every season

Spring: get ready for cooling

  • Change or clean your air filter
  • Clear leaves and grass from around the outdoor unit
  • Make sure supply and return vents are open
  • Book a cooling tune-up before the first heat wave

Summer: keep it cool

  • Check the filter monthly when the AC runs a lot
  • Look for water near the indoor unit
  • Use shades on sunny windows
  • Call if you see ice on the copper lines (AC help)

Fall: get ready for heating

  • Replace the filter before the first cold night
  • Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
  • Clear storage away from the furnace or boiler
  • Book a heating tune-up

Winter: stay warm and safe

  • Keep outdoor vents and intake pipes clear of snow
  • Watch the boiler pressure gauge if you have hot-water heat
  • Keep a steady temperature to help prevent frozen pipes
  • Call if heat is weak or off (heating help)

Want more detail? See the ENERGY STAR maintenance checklist.

Air filters

Your filter matters more than you think

A clogged filter is one of the most common reasons a system struggles. It blocks airflow, which can make rooms uncomfortable and make equipment work harder.

  • Check the size printed on the filter frame
  • Check it monthly during heavy use
  • Replace it when it looks gray or dusty
  • Point the airflow arrow toward the furnace or air handler

Thinking about better filtration? See indoor air quality.

Technician installing a new furnace air filter

Safety

Gas smells and carbon monoxide alarms

Carbon monoxide is a gas you cannot see or smell. Fuel-burning equipment like furnaces, boilers and water heaters can create it if something goes wrong.

  • Install CO alarms near sleeping areas and on each level
  • Test alarms monthly and replace batteries as directed
  • If an alarm sounds, get everyone outside and call 911
  • If you smell gas, leave first, then call from outside

Learn more: EPA carbon monoxide facts.

Hand testing a carbon monoxide alarm

Save energy

Simple ways to waste less energy

  • Use a schedule on your thermostat
  • Seal leaky ducts in attics and basements
  • Keep furniture off vents and returns
  • Ask about rebates before you replace equipment

Helpful links: ENERGY STAR smart thermostats, ENERGY STAR rebate finder and New Jersey's Clean Energy Program. Related services: thermostats and efficiency and ductwork and zoning.

Smart thermostat on a hallway wall

Permits

Do HVAC projects need permits?

Many equipment replacements, new installs and renovations need permits and inspections in New Jersey. Rules come from the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code, and local permits are handled by the Elmwood Park Building Department. We help you understand what your project needs.

When to call

When to call a pro

Heat or cooling stops

If your system will not start after you check the thermostat and filter, call (973) 938-8792. We are open 24/7 for emergencies.

Strange sounds or smells

Grinding, banging, burning smells or musty odors are worth a check.

Water where it should not be

Leaks near a boiler, AC or water heater can cause damage fast.

Ready for a more comfortable home?

Do not put up with a cold, hot or stuffy home another day. Call (973) 938-8792. We are open 24/7 for emergencies. Or send a quick request and we will follow up. Prefer email? Write to Info@elmwoodparkhvac.com.