As winter rolls in, a cozy home becomes essential. There is nothing worse than sensing an unexpected chill when you rely on your furnace for warmth. But don’t panic just yet. Before you reach for the phone to call for help, you can take a few straightforward steps to inspect your furnace. You might find that resolving your furnace issues is simpler than you think. Here are three key steps every homeowner should take to keep their heating system running smoothly.
Step 1: Inspect the Air Filter
A dirty air filter can significantly impact your furnace's performance, leading to increased energy bills and major repairs. Proper airflow is crucial for heating efficiency. A clogged filter restricts airflow, potentially causing your furnace to overheat and fail.
Find the air filter, typically located at the cold air return of your furnace. If you see dust and dirt buildup, it may be time for a replacement. Experts recommend changing your air filter every three to six months. Doing so not only keeps the air clean but can also extend your furnace’s lifespan by up to 15%.
Opting for 4" or 5" air filter cabinet can also be a good move. Regularly monitoring your air filter is an easy step that helps you avoid heating problems in winter.
Step 2: Inspect the Exhaust Vents
The fall season is a beautiful time of year but can also create problems for your furnaces ventilation system. Falling leaf's and other debris such as bird nests and chipmunks tend to house themselves in the furnace exhaust or intake air vents located on the outside of the home.
Sometimes, debris that enters the vent piping gets stuck and prevents the furnace from operating. Lucky, newer furnaces will detect these issues and stop the furnace from running preventing a larger issue, but may leave you with no heat.
If the vents are blocked or seem to not provide proper air flow, you may want to vacuum the pipes out or remove the debris by hand, if possible.
Step 3: Change the Thermostat Batteries
Start with the thermostat. Many furnace issues originate from simple problems here. Ensure your thermostat is set to "heat" and the temperature dial is higher than the room temperature reading. If you have a programmable thermostat, check that its schedule is accurate for the current day and time.
Sometimes, thermostats may show faulty behavior. Try gently tapping it or changing the batteries if it’s battery-operated.
While some checks are straightforward, don’t hesitate to contact a professional if you uncover any concerns that feel beyond your level of comfort.
Wrapping Up
Experiencing furnace issues can be stressful, especially when winter temperatures drop. However, by following these three simple steps—inspect air flow, inspect exhaust vents and change the thermostat batteries—you can often identify common problems without excessive effort.
If you still struggle to get your furnace functioning or encounter safety concerns after your inspections, reaching out to a qualified technician is the best course of action. Keeping your home warm and inviting during the winter months is crucial, and regular maintenance can prevent many issues.
Remember, your furnace is vital to your home's comfort, and with these basic checks, you can ensure it operates at its best. NES Plumbing, Heating and Cooling is always a simple text message or phone call away. Stay warm and happy heating!
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