Winters in Minnesota can be quite unforgiving. So, you probably would do everything in your power to ensure your family stays comfortable and safe all season long. Your furnace has a lot to do with that. But how do you make sure it is up for the challenge and it does not give up on you when you need it the most?
Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your reliable heating company in Andover MN. Keeping furnaces efficient is one of our areas of expertise. In this article, we’re going to give you a few practical tips to ensure a toasty winter.
Be sure you have clean filters.
The easiest thing you can do without any professional help 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.
Keep your registers open.
Clutter-free, unblocked registers allow warm air to flow freely throughout your home. To keep your registers clean, do your house cleaning regularly. Using a vacuum cleaner at least twice a month shouldn’t be a bad idea.
If you have a piece of furniture blocking one of your furnace’s registers, move it away to ensure the system has enough airflow. Doing so not only will help keep your home at a comfortable temperature but will also help minimize strain on your furnace.
Clean the area surrounding your furnace regularly.
Maintaining cleanliness around the furnace’s area can go a long way. This task can be as easy as sweeping away dust and debris. Avoid storing any items close to the system, and make sure to keep at least three feet of clearance around it. Keeping this area clean helps in at least two ways: better air circulation and safer furnace operation.
Inspect the control valve.
Regardless of the brand name, most furnaces will have a control valve for safety reasons. If you find that your furnace is not generating heat, this is one of the first places to check. If you have a gas-fired furnace, the control valve will be located on the supply line. Be sure that this valve is in the “ON” position and that gas is free to enter your furnace. Without any fuel to burn, it would be impossible for your furnace to produce heat, so checking this valve will make sure you stay warm this winter.
Questions? Ask Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning
If you’re having trouble with your home heating, be sure to talk to one of our NATE-certified Coon Rapids furnace repair experts. Our professionals understand furnaces and can fix the problem in no time. We will make sure your furnace works in tip-top shape before leaving your premises. We look forward to working with you.