Simple Ways to Avoid Calling for Furnace Repair This Winter
Winter has arrived and right now you're relying on your furnace more than ever. One of the simplest ways to keep your furnace running efficiently is to keep up on annual maintenance and tune-ups. There are also a few simple things you can check on yourself that could keep you from being left in the cold and in need of an emergency furnace repair.
- Keep Air Vents Open - There's some misinformation out there about closing off vents in vacant rooms. In theory, it makes sense that it would save on energy expenses. However, closing off vents actually puts an unneeded strain on your system that may lead to issues in the future. Interior walls are not insulated and the temperature in the room leaks 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 running as it should be, the problem is very obvious - dead batteries in your thermostat. Normally, your thermostat will offer a warning approximately 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 heated? There may be a simple explanation for it. Check and ensure 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 consistently blowing air, you might have your fan set to "on" rather than "auto". The "on" switch continually keeps your fan blowing, regardless if your furnace is currently heating. The "auto" switch only utilizes 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 dirty filter is the most common reason a heating system quits running. Dirt and debris keep air from passing around your system and that can possibly cause your furnace to overheat. Replacing your furnace filter is the easiest way to help possibly 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 scheduled your annual furnace service yet, you can easily arrange an appointment by giving us a call at 803-220-0761.