Extreme cold weather can put a strain on your heating system. To avoid dangerous heating outages during the winter season, take the time to make sure your heater stays in good working condition. Here are 5 smart preventive measures that will help you and your family stay safe and warm throughout the cool and cold weather seasons.
Adjust your thermostat.
There are a lot of benefits to equipping your HVAC system with a programmable thermostat. By using your thermostat wisely, you can help increase the energy efficiency of the entire system. The United States Department of Energy recommends adjusting the thermostat to 68°F while you are awake and setting it lower while you are away from home or asleep to save energy in the winter.
Replace dirty air filter.
The simple task of changing your air filters can make a great difference in your heater’s longevity and performance. Dirty and clogged filters are among the main causes of equipment issues. It restrict normal airflow that causes the system to overheat and fail. Remember to replace your air filters every one to three months to maintain the efficiency of the system. Households with indoor pets need to change their air filters more regularly than other households.
Inspect the ducts.
Regular inspection of your air ducts will improve air quality and the overall efficiency of your heating system. Regularly check your air ducts for mold growth, pest infestation, dust and dirt build-up, and leaks or damages. To safely clean your air ducts, leave the job to a qualified service provider. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the cost of air duct cleaning services ranges from $450 to $1,000 per system depending on the size of the system to be cleaned, system accessibility, climatic region, and level of contamination.
Remove objects near your furnace.
Before turning your heater in winter, make sure that the area surrounding the unit is free from any objects like furniture, boxes, storage containers, and more. Otherwise, you run the risk of having a fire break out in your home. 2015 IRC M1305 requires that furnace equipment have a level working space of at least 30 inches by 30 inches in the front of the unit.
Do not delay your furnace repair.
If you are experiencing heating issues in your residential property, you should call your trusted HVAC contractors right away. Delaying your furnace repair allows the problem to escalate and turn into a full-blown emergency. The clear signs you need to call an immediate furnace repair include water leaks around the unit, strange odors, loud sounds, and unusually high heating bills.
Regular equipment maintenance and repairs do not only increase the lifespan and performance of your furnace. It can also help you save money on your monthly energy bills. Get the best results from your heater repair by hiring only the service of licensed, skilled, and experienced professionals.
Find the right HVAC company in your local area by asking for honest recommendations from family, friends, and colleagues. You may also check the local industry page online for top-performing service providers near you. Hire a pro today!
