Winter is coming… Is your furnace prepared? A furnace that is in good working condition will come in handy during those colder evenings. Here are some of the best ways you can make sure your furnace is prepared and ready for winter.
1. Change Your Air Filter
Depending on the activity inside your home, you should plan to change your filter every 1-3 months. If you have kids or pets, for example, you should plan to change your filter closer to every month. Changing them regularly will help keep common pollutants such as dust, dirt, dander, pollen, and mold out of your HVAC system. Not only that, but it will also help improve your indoor air quality as a result.
2. Inspect Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide detectors are essential in every home. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, poison gas that can make you extremely sick – and can even be fatal. If you don’t have a carbon monoxide detector that works, there’s nothing to alert you of possible CO poisoning. Make sure they’re working this winter and change the batteries if they’re not. If changing the batteries doesn’t solve the problem, it may be time to install new ones.
3. Clean The Heat Exchanger
Speaking of carbon monoxide, did you know the number one cause of CO leaks is a failed, or a leaking, heat exchanger? Make sure your heat exchanger is clean and working properly. It’s also not a bad idea to have it inspected by a professional, who can look for cracks or leaks just in case.
4. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
Many people think that ceiling fans are only helpful in the summer. However, ceiling fans are just as beneficial in the winter – when you set them clockwise. This helps create a gentle updraft that recirculates the heat down, making your room feel warmer. In fact, you can save 15% on heating costs by doing this.
5. Adjust Your Thermostat
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save energy in the winter by setting your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. This can help you save energy and reduce your heating bills. Heading into the holidays, many homeowners are looking for ways they can save money. Well, here’s one!
6. Schedule Furnace Maintenance
Scheduling preventative maintenance before winter rolls around is a great way to make sure your unit is working safely and efficiently. The last thing you want to deal with is a broken furnace in the middle of winter. Luckily, annual maintenance helps catch problems early so you can avoid malfunctions and breakdowns. Not only that, but it can also help prolong the life of your system and save on energy costs.
Contact The Pros at Acree Plumbing, Air & Electric For All Your Furnace Needs In Tampa, FL And Surrounding Areas
Looking to schedule furnace maintenance? Give us a call! Acree Plumbing, Air & Electric is here to help with all your heating and cooling needs. You can call Acree Plumbing, Air & Electric at (813) 530-9061 or contact us online here to schedule your appointment today.
