Simple Ways to Avoid Calling for Furnace Repair This Winter
Winter has reared its head and right now you're relying on your furnace more than ever. One of the best ways to keep your furnace running smoothly is to keep up on annual maintenance and tune-ups. There are also a few easy 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 unused 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 can lead to concerns in the future. Interior walls are not insulated and the temperature in the room will leak to other rooms in your house, creating an imbalance and causing your system to work less efficiently.
- Check Your Thermostat - Sometimes when your furnace isn't running as it should be, the problem is very simple - depleted batteries in your thermostat. Typically, your thermostat will provide a warning approximately a month before the battery doesn't work, but if you missed it, that could be the cause of your heating troubles.
Are your vents blowing coldair instead of hot? 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 always blowing air, you could have your fan set to "on" instead of "auto". The "on" switch constantly keeps your fan blowing, regardless if your furnace is currently heating. The "auto" switch only keeps the blower running when the furnace is heating your home. Keep in mind, if you keep your switch set to "on" you'll have to exchange 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. 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 three 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 schedule an appointment by giving us a call at 402-438-7992.