Furnaces are known to be tough machines that are built to last you a long time. But just like any other machine, they can succumb to wear and tear from overuse, neglect, or abuse. The last thing you want to happen in the middle of a long winter night is for your heating system to fail. You have to make sure that you use your furnace properly so that it does not break down prematurely. Otherwise, your home comfort and furnace efficiency will drastically decrease, and your heating costs and HVAC repairs will increase. The key is to know what you need to do to not place unnecessary strain on your furnace.
How You Are Overworking Your Furnace
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Many homeowners neglect the early warning signs that point to furnace problems. Most homeowners also do not know that they are partly to blame for the issues their heating system is experiencing. This article will tackle the six different ways homeowners overwork their heating systems.
Not Turning Your Thermostat Down When You Leave
Some homeowners keep the temperature on their thermostat the same even when they leave their homes for long periods. Doing so not only forces your heating system to work harder than it should. It also wastes energy.
This will undoubtedly result in high energy costs and an overworked system. To avoid this, install a programmable thermostat. This device will allow you to input energy-efficient thermostat settings for when your home is occupied and unoccupied. If you do not have one, just turn down the thermostat before you leave. Make sure that the recommended thermostat setting is in place when you are at home as well.
Letting Cold Air In The House
Leaving the windows and doors open will result in a cold air draft. Even the slightest opening will result in you feeling cold despite your furnace running all day. Thoroughly check all your windows and doors to ensure that they are closed and locked. There could be holes, cracks, and gaps around them as well. Have a professional fix these right away.
Turning Up The Thermostat When You’re Cold
When you feel cold, cranking the thermostat temperature up isn’t necessarily the first step to take. Check the thermostat and make sure that it is at the ideal temperature. If it is, do not turn it up any further than the recommended thermostat settings, as this will not make you feel warmer faster. In fact, doing so will only overwork your system.
Blocking Vents With Furniture
Blocking air return vents with furniture, plants, or other objects will disrupt the airflow. Some homeowners forget this because they prioritize indoor design and style. Some homeowners also put their beds over a floor vent, thinking that this will keep their beds warm and comfy. This might be true to some degree, but this also means you block the warm air from flowing freely into your room. If wall heat vents are blocked, the furnace cannot distribute warm air properly, and you’ll only end up with cold spots or with little to no heat at all.
Skipping Yearly Furnace Tune-Ups
Furnace maintenance is a must-do at least once every year. Regular checkups ensure that all issues are detected and resolved early. It ensures continuous home comfort, a high level of indoor air quality, and an energy-efficient system.
One of the things included in the furnace maintenance checklist is cleaning or replacing the furnace filters. Neglecting to do so causes your furnace to work harder than it should. Ensure that the filter is clean by checking it monthly.
Choosing The Cheapest Heating System Replacement
As time passes, your furnace becomes less efficient. It will eventually succumb to worn out components and old age. When this happens, you will need to replace your heating system.
Newer models are highly efficient. You will notice a significant difference when it comes to your energy bills, indoor air quality, home comfort, and more. Make sure to consult a furnace replacement company when selecting a new furnace. Do not go for the cheapest heating system available. Remember that your furnace is an investment that will affect your home for the years to come.
Three Signs Your Heating System Is Overworked
Listed below are some of the signs to look out for if you suspect that you are overworking your furnace:
- Increased Home Heating Bills: It is natural for your energy costs to increase during winter. However, if the spike seems unusual, you might have some furnace problems in your hands. Call an HVAC professional to inspect your furnace and find the possible causes.
- Uneven Temperatures: Do you have cold and hot spots around your home? Can your furnace maintain the ideal temperature? If the answer to both is no, you most likely have an overworked furnace. Contact your local HVAC company for a thorough inspection and proper diagnosis of your heating system.
- Frequent Furnace Repairs: A furnace that needs to be repaired frequently in a short period is most likely overworked. A system that strains to operate as it should is more susceptible to wear and tear. It is also expected to break down prematurely.
Call Skylands Energy Service For All Of Your Heating Requirements
Home heating is an essential part of keeping your home safe and comfortable during the cold season. Therefore, understanding your HVAC system is vital to maintain its efficiency. To know more about what you can do to make sure that your HVAC unit is in tiptop shape, or if you need to replace your current furnace, contact your local trusted heating specialist today.
Skylands Energy Service is the leading heating and cooling expert in the area. Our professionally certified and trained technicians can resolve your home comfort issues promptly and accurately every time. We guarantee affordable and the most competitive service rates in the area. All our services are backed up with a guarantee. Do not hesitate to call Skylands Energy Service today for a free, in-home estimate.
Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!