It’s not even officially winter yet, but the temperatures are already below zero degrees. Therefore, your furnace is due for another busy season. But how prepared is your system for winter?
Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is a trusted heating company in Fridley MN that can help you properly maintain your furnace, making sure it works as effectively as possible.
Here are three essential tips to keep your heating system in great shape during the cold months.
Filters
The simplest thing you can do without the help of a professional is to change your furnace filter when it gets clogged with dirt. The filter is responsible for keeping dirt from entering your system. A clogged filter can cause several issues, one of which is overheating, which is due to the lack of airflow in the system. If you fail to address this issue, it could lead to more serious problems such as heat exchanger damage, which could cost you hundreds of dollars. That goes without saying a dirty furnace wastes a lot of energy due to inefficiency.
HVAC professionals recommend replacing the filter at least once per month, depending on usage. Filters are easy to replace and available in most home improvement stores and HVAC dealers. Keep in mind that filters may need to be regularly checked if your system is always in use or you have household pets.
A clean filter offers several benefits, one of which is lower energy costs. Since heating can easily account for about half the average of your home’s utility bills, replacing your filter will help you minimize the costs because the fan motor doesn’t have to work as hard.
Another benefit of a clean filter is that it prolongs the life of your unit. Winter is the season when your furnace is in peak use, and the last thing you’d want is a clogged filter that causes the system to overheat. You don’t want to deal with a malfunctioning furnace in the middle of a cold winter night! Keeping your filter clean enables your system to work as effortlessly as possible, extending its lifespan.
Insulation
Having proper insulation is one of the most effective ways to keep the temperature controlled throughout your home. A great amount of heat can be lost through your roof, so it’s important to have your attic properly insulated. Look for drafts around windows and doors, and seal off any leaks. When your HVAC system is not competing with the outside temperature coming into your home, it will keep your system working effortlessly. This is beneficial in terms of maintaining a consistent heat throughout the home and lowering your utility bills.
The United States Department of Energy states that adding winter insulation to a poorly insulated home, or even a new home, can improve its comfort and significantly reduce energy costs. This cost reduction practically pays for the insulation itself in a few years.
Heat Exchanger
Your heating system includes a heat exchanger, which is responsible for transferring or “exchanging” heat from one place to another. It is a set of tubes or coils that are looped repeatedly through the airflow inside the furnace, engineered to heat the air.
This part needs to be brushed and vacuumed out at least once per year (particularly before the heating season). It is essential to inspect the unit for cracks, which could lead to harmful carbon monoxide leak into your home.
A damaged or cracked heat exchanger poses serious danger to you and your family. Keep in mind that your furnace involves combustion to generate heat, and the process should take place in the heat exchanger itself. If it is damaged or cracked, carbon monoxide can spread throughout your home. This problem should not be taken lightly as this invisible gas is proven to be fatal.
Need Help? Call Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning
To help you ensure your furnace is ready for the cold season, give us a call. Our seasoned, NATE-certified technicians are ready to help you ensure your heating system stays in tip-top shape. For over forty years, we have been the top St. Louis Park furnace maintenance contractor that delivers outstanding heating solutions. It would be our pleasure to work with you.