Simple Ways to Avoid Calling for Furnace Repair This Winter
Winter has arrived and right now you're counting on your furnace more than ever. One of the easiest ways to keep your furnace running effortlessly is to maintain appointments for annual maintenance and tune-ups. There are also some simple 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 a misunderstanding that exists about closing off vents in empty rooms. In theory, it sounds like this would save on energy bills. However, closing off vents actually puts an unnecessary strain on your system that may lead to concerns in the future. Interior walls are not insulated and the temperature in the room then goes to other rooms in your house, leaving an imbalance and causing your system to operate less efficiently.
- Check Your Thermostat - Sometimes when your furnace isn't working as it should be, the problem is very easy - dead batteries in your thermostat. Usually, your thermostat will give a warning approximately a month before the battery runs out, but if you missed it, that could be the cause of your heating troubles.
Are your vents blowing coolair instead of heated? There could 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 notice that your system is constantly blowing air, you might 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 change your filters more often. This then leads to...
- Change Your Air Filter – A nasty filter is the most common reason a heating system breaks down. Dirt and debris keep air from passing around your system and that can possibly cause your furnace to overheat. Changing your furnace filter is the easiest way to help possibly extend the life 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 arranged your annual furnace service yet, you can easily arrange an appointment by giving us a call at 952-373-0377.