Winter heating bills can put a strain not only on your wallet but on your furnace as well. With the recent drop in temperatures there is nothing more a homeowner wants at the end of a long day than to relax in a warm home. However, heating a home can put a strain on your furnace and the last thing you will want is to deal with non-operational furnace on a day you need it the most. Furnace replacement is not inexpensive, so you want to keep your furnace running optimally and efficiently. These are a few simple tips you can follow to minimize the strain on your furnace this winter season and help it run more efficiently to save money.
Replace Your Air Filters
The air filters are a vital component of your HVAC system and play a significant role in its operation. The air filters are responsible for keeping pollutants and contaminants from entering the system, which benefits the HVAC system and the indoor air quality. A clogged air filter places an unnecessary strain on your furnace, increasing its workload and increasing your heating bills. A good rule of thumb to follow is to check your filters monthly and at minimum replace them every 3 months.
Use A Programmable Thermostat
Consider installing a programmable or smart thermostat to manage the temperature in your home. These thermostats make it easy, so you are not heating up an empty home while everyone is away at school or work. To reduce the strain on your furnace give it a break from heating your home while you are away. Another thing to keep in mind, is to not leave your fan run on the “on” setting. This increases the wear on the blower motor.
Schedule Furnace Maintenance
Schedule routine furnace maintenance once a year. This is a great cost-effective way to increase the lifespan of your system and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs or sudden furnace failure. A common mistake most homeowners make is not thinking about their HVAC unit until it becomes a problem. Schedule routine furnace maintenance before the start of winter, to help ensure your system is operating efficiently and to help minimize the strain on your furnace and heating bills.
Improve Insulation and Windows
Making improvements to your property’s insulation is an easy way to reduce the strain on your furnace this winter. Consider adding or improving the insulation in your attic, ceiling, and walls to help maintain the proper insulation in your home. Another way is to upgrade to energy efficient windows or seal any cracks in the doors and windows properly to minimize drafts.
Check your Ductwork
Overtime your ductwork can develop small holes that will allow the heated air to escape, increasing the strain on your furnace. If your ductwork has not been inspected considering getting it inspected and having the holes patched. A professional HVAC company will be able to let you know if the ductwork is beyond repair and it would be better to replace your ductwork which is also a great way to improve air quality in your home.
Move Furniture Away from Vents
Another helpful tip to minimize strain on your furnace is to make sure not to block air vents with furniture. Blocked air vents leads to poor airflow and inconsistent heating of your home. Clearing any obstacles that may block your furnace or air vents helps ensure the correct air circulation throughout your home.
Contact LA Construction, Heating and Air
At the first sign of furnace trouble contact us to inspect and repair your furnace. Do not let minor issues sit for too long as they can cause unnecessary extra strain on your furnace and even lead to a complete furnace breakdown. These are just a few of the ways you can help minimize strain on your furnace this winter season. If you need to schedule routine furnace maintenance give us a call today or contact us online, we are here to help.
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