5 Easy Ways To Keep Your Furnace Happy
Maximizing Your Furnace Efficiency This Winter
As winter’s chill persists, your furnace continues to work tirelessly to maintain a cozy home environment. However, it’s important to remember that your heating system plays a crucial role year-round. During the colder months, it warms and circulates air, while in warmer seasons, it aids in distributing cooled air. In this blog, we’ll take a look at some practical tips you can use to keep your furnace operating in prime condition for a long time to come.
Make Sure To Keep Your Filters Clean
Imagine sipping a thick milkshake through a narrow straw – that’s similar to how your furnace operates with a clogged air filter. A dirty filter forces your system to work harder, increasing energy consumption and potentially compromising comfort. For homes using disposable filters, aim to replace them every 1-3 months, unless you have an annual filter. In areas with high dust or dryness, more frequent changes may be necessary to preserve furnace efficiency and air quality.
Keep Up A Regular Maintenance Schedule
Just as your car requires regular tune-ups to avoid breakdowns, your furnace benefits from routine professional inspections. A qualified HVAC technician can ensure your system operates at peak performance, resulting in:
- Reduced energy consumption for heating
- Early detection of minor issues before they escalate
- Consistent home comfort
Keep Your Intake Pipes Clear
High-efficiency condensing furnaces rely on external intake pipes for air supply. If these become obstructed, it can impact your furnace’s efficiency and potentially lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. Regularly inspect the intake and exhaust pipes on your home’s exterior, ensuring they’re free from ice, snow, or other blockages like bird nests or insects. If you’re unable to check these pipes safely, enlist the help of a professional HVAC technician.
Take Advantage Of Smart Thermostat Technology
Programmable thermostats offer precise control over your home’s temperature, allowing you to match heating output with your daily routines. This means you can reduce energy consumption when the house is empty or during sleeping hours. Many modern smart thermostats incorporate features that can further reduce furnace workload. For instance, some models gradually increase temperature over time, rather than forcing the furnace to rapidly heat the space all at once.
Have A Strategy To Manage Your Temperatures
Even when you’re home, you can optimize your furnace’s performance. Since very cold outdoor temperatures force your furnace to work harder, consider lowering your thermostat’s set point at night. The slight temperature drop is less noticeable during sleep and can significantly reduce strain on your system.
Care For Your Furnace As It Cares For You
By implementing these strategies, you can ensure your furnace operates efficiently throughout the winter months, potentially extending its lifespan and reducing energy costs. For more detailed advice on maintaining your heating system, send us a message online or call (715) 283-4422 anytime – we’re happy to answer all of your questions!
