PSEG Offers Tips: How To Check Your Heating System Before The 1st Cold Snap Hits

If something goes wrong with your home’s heating system, it’s better to find out before the first cold snap hits. That’s why Public Service Electric and Gas (PSE&G) is encouraging its customers to check their heating system while the thermometer still says “summer.”

According to a company news release, customers who have problems starting their systems or need a hand igniting their pilot light can call a PSE&G service technician, will come out to start the unit at no charge, as long as the appointment is scheduled before Monday, Sept. 12.

“Don’t wait until it gets cold to inspect your gas-fired heating system and make sure it starts and runs properly,” said Joe Forline, vice president of gas operations for PSE&G. “If there is a problem starting the system - even if it is just an unlit pilot - it is better to fix it now, so it is ready to heat your home when you need it this fall.”

PSE&G customers having problems can call 1-800-436-7734 or schedule repair services online at pseg.com/myaccount.

The company offered the following tips for checking your heating system:

• Check that the area surrounding the unit is free of combustible items including boxes, paper, clothing, paint and other flammables.
• Make sure that the flue pipe is connected and in good condition.
• If you have a hot water boiler, check that the indicator on the pressure gauge falls into the normal range (12-15 psi cold).
• If you have a steam heating system, check the water level in the sight glass. If it is low, turn on the water supply valve to bring the water level up to the halfway mark, and then turn off the valve.
• For warm-air furnace systems, check and replace dirty air filters. Check that the blower door is closed tight and correctly secured.
• Make sure that all controls, valves, and electrical switches are in the “on” position.

Here’s how to start up your heating system, according to PSE&G:

• If the unit is equipped with a pilot, confirm that it is lit. If the pilot is out, follow the instructions on the heating unit to relight it. Let the pilot light burn a few minutes before continuing.
• Many heating units use a form of automatic ignition. Review the starting instructions located on the unit before continuing.
• Set each thermostat mode to “heat” (if equipped), and raise the setting five degrees above room temperature. The heating system should start within a minute or two.
• Let the unit run a few minutes to ensure it is operating normally and then return all controls to their previous settings.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Send local news tips, photos and press releases to eric.kiefer@patch.com