When winter hits in some parts of the country, it can hit very hard. In fact, some days your furnace may have to work overtime just to keep you warm. However, there are some things you can do to make it easier on your furnace and keep your heating bills affordable. Here are four tips to help your furnace work smarter this season.
Put in a New Filter
You do not need to call your local HVAC company to replace a furnace filter. Filter replacement only takes a few minutes. Filters can get very dirty, especially if you live in a dusty environment or have pets inside the home. If your furnace filter gets dirty, your furnace works harder, it costs you more money, and may shorten your furnace’s life. Check the filter each month, and when it is dirty, replace it.
Check the Heat Vents
Are you sure all your heating vents are open and clear of obstructions? You may have covered a vent with a rug in the summer. Perhaps a family member closed one of the vents by accident. There might be dust, dirt, or trash in some of your heat vents. Vents on the walls or ceilings are easy to check but you may need to look underneath furniture or behind things to check floor vents. Your heating system can do a better job if all the vents are clear and clean.
Use or Install Ceiling Fans
Warm air rises and eventually makes its way to the ceiling. In fact, the ceiling may be the warmest part of your house. When properly set, a ceiling fan takes warm air from the ceiling and circulates it throughout the room. Circulating air helps to increase heating efficiency and makes the room warmer and more comfortable. Make sure your ceiling fan is set to turn clockwise for winter and keep it on low speed. If your home has no ceiling fans, consider installing one in the living room and areas farthest from the furnace.
Get a Furnace Checkup
You cannot tell if your furnace is going to give you trouble this season. However, your HVAC technician can give you a good idea of what to expect. He cleans and inspects all the components. If you need repairs, your HVAC service can do them now before you have a breakdown on one of the coldest nights. Furnace preventative maintenance is one of the best ways to keep your heating system in good condition and maintain heating efficiency. The best time to get a checkup is in the fall but you can schedule seasonal maintenance any time of the year.
Putting Things into Perspective
Your furnace filter needs to stay clean to help your heating system work at maximum efficiency. A new filter does not cost much and is simple to install. Make sure your home’s heating vents are clean and not blocked. Ceiling fans are not just for summer, as they can help your furnace work smarter and make the room warmer. Contact your heating and cooling service about a furnace seasonal tune-up to keep your home warm this winter.
aplusair.ca Heating & Air Conditioning wants to help you make informed decisions when it comes to the comfort and enjoyment of your home. With expert staff and second-to-none service, they can provide all your residential and commercial heating and cooling solutions. For more information, visit www.aplusair.ca.