Blown Away HVAC Mocksville, NC | How to keep your furnace running during the colder months
It’s that time of year again when the cold weather is starting to creep in, and the holidays are just around the corner. Like most people, the last thing you want to worry about is your furnace going out. But with a few simple tips, you can keep your furnace running all season smoothly long.
1. Make sure your furnace is properly maintained.
A well-maintained furnace will run more efficiently and help to keep you warm during the colder months. Having your furnace regularly serviced by a professional can help to keep it in good working order and prevent breakdowns.
Having your furnace serviced by a professional at least once a year is essential. This will help to ensure that your furnace is running efficiently and help to prevent any potential problems. Servicing your furnace can also help to extend its life.
If you are having any problems with your furnace, it is essential to contact a professional as soon as possible. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend a course of action. Ignoring problems with your furnace can lead to more severe issues, such as a breakdown or fire.
When choosing a professional to service your furnace, it is essential to choose someone experienced and qualified. It would help if you also asked for references from previous customers. This will help you to find a reputable company that you can trust.
2. Keep the filters clean.
Dirty filters can impede air flow and reduce the efficiency of your furnace. Be sure to check and clean the filters monthly or as needed.
Airflow is essential for several reasons. First, it prevents your furnace from overworking; second, it helps distribute heat evenly throughout your home. If you have a central heating system, reduced airflow can cause your home to feel warmer at the top and cooler at the bottom. This is because the warm air rises while the cool air stays at the bottom.
To prevent your furnace from working overtime, check the filters monthly and clean them as needed. Doing so will help increase airflow and reduce energy costs.
If you have a central heating system, ensure the vents are open and unobstructed. If you have floor vents, keep them clear of furniture or other objects. This will ensure that warm air can circulate freely throughout your home.
In addition to checking and cleaning the filters monthly, it’s also essential to have your furnace serviced by a professional once a year. This will help ensure that it’s operating at peak efficiency and catch any potential problems before they become major repairs.
3. Check for leaks.
Inspect your furnace and ductwork regularly for any gaps or leaks that could be allowing heat to escape. If you find any, seal them with caulking or weatherstripping to help keep the heat in. Also, keep the area around your furnace clear of any flammable materials, such as gasoline or cleaning fluids, which could pose a fire hazard.
If your furnace is more than 20 years old, it may be time to replace it with a newer, more efficient model. More recent furnaces are much more energy-efficient than older models and can help you save money on your heating bills. When shopping for a new furnace, look for one with an Energy Star rating, which means it meets strict energy-efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
In addition to having your furnace serviced by a professional before the start of each heating season, you should also have it cleaned and inspected regularly. A clean furnace will operate more efficiently and last longer than one that isn’t maintained correctly. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and inspection frequency.
4. Keep your thermostat set at a consistent temperature.
Turning your thermostat up and down frequently can cause your furnace to work harder and use more energy. So find a comfortable temperature and stick with it. You can save about 1% on your energy bill for each degree you lower your thermostat in the winter.
If you have a programmable thermostat, you can set it to automatically lower the temperature when you’re away from home or asleep. Just remember to turn it back up when you need it.
You can also save energy by making sure your furnace is running efficiently. Check and replace your furnace filters regularly. A clean filter can save you about 5% on your heating bill.
And if your furnace is over 20 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. A new, high-efficiency furnace can save you about 30% on your heating costs.
5. Don't block vents.
Ensure nothing is blocking the vents in your home, as this can restrict air flow and make your furnace work harder to heat your home. This can also lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
If you have a central heating and cooling system, you should also have it serviced before the cold weather hits. This will help ensure that it is working correctly and can help prevent any issues from arising during the colder months.
You should also take steps to insulate your home as much as possible. This includes sealing any cracks or gaps around doors and windows. You can also add insulation to your attic and crawl spaces. These measures will help keep warm air inside your home and prevent cold air from entering.
Finally, you should ensure that you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. These devices can help alert you to any potential dangers so that you can take action to protect yourself and your family.
Conclusion
These simple tips help keep your furnace running smoothly and efficiently all winter! Stay warm!
If you have any questions or concerns about your furnace, contact a qualified heating contractor like Blown Away HVAC. We’re here to help keep you comfortable all winter long!
At Blown Away HVAC, we know a thing or two about furnaces. After all, we are a professional heating contractor! We’re here to help keep your furnace running smoothly throughout winter so you can stay comfortable and warm indoors.