PSE&G Offers Free Furnace Check Through Sept. 9

Following one of the warmest summers in recent memory, PSE&G is reminding residents that it won't stay warm forever.

Winter is approaching and PSE&G is offering gas heating customers a special incentive to turn the heat on now: the utility company will come out and start your unit at no charge through Sept. 9 to see if there is a problem with the system.

“Chilly weather will be here soon, and one of the best things our gas heating customers can do now is to check their system to ensure safe and efficient operation before the colder weather arrives,” said Joe Bassolino, PSE&G’s manager of business development. “By testing their heating systems early, customers will be prepared for the upcoming cold weather. In addition, PSE&G will be able to respond more quickly at this time of the season if there is a problem.”

The gas utility offers these tips for checking your heating system:

• Verify that the area surrounding the unit is free of combustible items like boxes, paper, clothing, paint, etc.
• Make sure that the flue pipe is connected and in good condition.
•  If you have a hot water boiler, verify 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 half-way mark. Turn off the valve.
• For warm-air furnace systems, check and replace dirty air filters. Verify that the blower door is closed tight and correctly secured.
• Verify that all controls, valves, and electrical switches are in the “On” position.

How to start up your heating system:

• If the unit is equipped with a pilot, confirm that it’s lit. If the pilot light 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’s operating normally and then return all controls to their previous settings.

 If you’re having problems:

• Need help lighting the pilot? PSE&G will perform this service free-of-charge through Sept. 9, 2012. PSE&G will charge $25 for this service from Sept. 10 through Oct. 31.
• Not working properly? PSE&G customers can call 1-800-350-PSEG (7734) or go to www.pseg.com to register their account and schedule repair services online for assistance from our appliance service technicians.