Furnaces are very complex machines that can be finicky if not used and cared for properly. That’s why, as your Columbus HVAC techs, we always try our best to keep you informed on the best practices when it comes to heating and cooling your home. It’s our job to help keep your systems working and your homes comfortable, after all!
Read on as we discuss some of our favorite tips and tricks to using your furnace, getting the most out of it, and how you might be working against it.
Schedule Maintenance & Repairs
Just like a car, your furnace requires regular maintenance in order to continue running smoothly. A poorly maintained system is one of the leading causes we see when it comes to a broken-down furnace and these breakdowns are so easily preventable.
Schedule your regular maintenance appointments at least twice a year, once at the beginning of cooling season, and once at the beginning of heating season. This will allow your technician to tune up the system, fix any issues, and clean it up for maximum efficiency.
In addition to regular maintenance, it is crucial that you never ignore signs of a furnace in need of repairs. Some common signs of this need include:
- No heat
- Strange smells
- Loud sounds
- Discolored pilot light
- Poor air quality
- Faulty thermostat
Waiting to get these issues fixed by a professional can worsen the problems, leading to a need for more expensive furnace repairs down the road, or the need for a total system replacement.
Thermostat Use
Thermostats are the control center for your furnace and are relatively straightforward to use. But did you know that your thermostat could be mounted in the “wrong” location? In order to get a proper temperature reading, your thermostat should be on an interior wall, in a location that does not get hit by the sun, and away from the kitchen and bathroom so it can’t be affected by the smoke and steam.
Once you have your thermostat properly placed, make sure you’re giving it a good dusting every so often. That excess dust can disturb the sensor, making it more difficult to read your home’s temperature.
Finally, make sure you are taking advantage of your thermostat’s features. Many modern thermostats have the ability to create a schedule for your heating system, meaning you could program it to lower a few degrees while everyone is away at school and work for the day, and have it begin warming up just before you arrive home. This tip will also go a long way in improving your efficiency and saving energy.
Air Filters
We tell our clients this all the time, but it bears repeating: change your air filters! Dirty air filters are one of the most common causes of an issue within your heating system as they affect sensors and air flow.
Change your air filters every 2-3 months for cleaner air and a better working system.
Saving Energy
If you’re looking for the best ways to save a few bucks on your energy bill every month, we’ve got you covered. One of the best ways is to program your thermostat the way we mentioned above. You can also bundle up the socks and sweaters and turn the heat down a few degrees. Lowering your thermostat by 7-10° every day could save you up to 10% on energy costs this year.
Another great way to help your furnace out and save a few dollars is by ensuring your home is properly insulated and sealed up. Seal around doors and windows and insulate the attic. This will keep the cold winter air out and the warm, heated air in.
Furnace Repairs in Columbus, OH Looking for more tips and tricks, or to schedule a repair? Contact the Aire-Flo Heating, Cooling & Generators team or call us at (614) 618-9989 and let’s get started.
