Simple Ways to Avoid Calling for Furnace Repair This Winter
Winter has reared its head and right now you're trusting your furnace more than ever. One of the easiest ways to keep your furnace running efficiently is to maintain appointments for annual maintenance and tune-ups. There are also a few basic things you can check on yourself that might keep you from being left in the cold and in need of an emergency furnace repair.
- Keep Air Vents Open - There's wrong information out there about closing off vents in unused rooms. In theory, it sounds like this would save on energy costs. However, closing off vents actually puts an increased strain on your system that can lead to issues in the future. Interior walls are not insulated and the temperature in the room will leak to other rooms in your house, making an imbalance and causing your system to run less efficiently.
- Check Your Thermostat - Sometimes when your furnace isn't working as it should be, the problem is very easy - depleted batteries in your thermostat. Normally, your thermostat will provide a warning about a month before the battery runs out, but if you missed it, that may be the cause of your heating issues.
Are your vents blowing chilledair instead of hot? There might be a simple explanation for it. Check and make sure your thermostat is set to "heat" instead of "cool". You never know who has been playing around with the thermostat.
Your thermostat has a fan setting. If you realize that your system is constantly blowing air, you could have your fan set to "on" versus "auto". The "on" switch always keeps your fan blowing, regardless if your furnace is currently heating. The "auto" switch only runs the blower when the furnace is heating your home. Keep in mind, if you keep your switch set to "on" you'll have to swap your filters more often. This then leads to...
- Change Your Air Filter – A dirty filter is the most common reason a heating system stops working. Dirt and debris keep air from passing around your system and that can possibly cause your furnace to overheat. Swapping your furnace filter is the easiest way to help try to extend the lifespan of your heating system and avoid furnace repair.
Along with these easy tips, the best advice is to keep up with annual, scheduled furnace maintenance. If you haven't booked your annual furnace service yet, you can easily arrange an appointment by giving us a call at 631-737-5566.