While keeping your furnace in good condition is especially of concern during the winter months, you want to make sure your furnace is working all year round. Here are some things you can do to ensure your furnace is well-maintained during the warmer months and extend its life.
1. Clean air filters
Have you neglected to change your air filters for almost an entire year? Failure to install new air filters regularly may leave you with a furnace problem. Clogged air filters can cause your furnace to break down, increase your energy costs, allow dirt and dust to settle in your home, and give you poor air quality.
How often do you need to change your air filters?
It is recommended to change your furnace filters about every three months. If your home is subjected to smoke or a lot of animal dander, you may want to consider changing the filters more often to be confident that your HVAC system is providing clean air.
2. Keep path for vents and pipes clear
Have you ever noticed a pile of snow built up around your furnace intake pipes? Your furnace needs to have a clear path for the intake air for it to function properly. Before winter sets in, you should make sure nothing is blocking the intake pipe. Going outside to clean the snow away in the winter could save you from having to look for “furnace service Calgary” because the air flow has been restricted.
Another reason to keep snow and ice away from your furnace vents and pipes is to eliminate the danger of carbon monoxide from building up in your home. Also, if a vent pipe is too close to the air intake pipe, you could have a problem. When the air exiting your furnace gets sucked back into the intake pipe it brings carbon monoxide with it.
3. Avoid cranking your thermostat all the way up
Even in freezing temperatures, it is a bad idea to crank your thermostat as high as it can go. Turning your thermostat up to its highest point causes it to work harder than it is meant to and can raise your energy costs. An overworked furnace will lead to damage and repairs before they are necessary.
Save yourself the time and hassle of needing a furnace repair in Calgary by installing a programmable thermostat that can regulate the heat during the day and night. A consistent temperature helps to prolong the life of your furnace and keep your home at a comfortable heat level.
4. Regular furnace maintenance
Having consistent professional furnace service in Calgary can identify any cracks or leaks that may be present. A professional technician will also inspect the blowers, heat exchanger, and other components that operate your furnace. It’s best to have a professional HVAC service provider perform these types of checks because they are fully trained to identify issues that could potentially leave you without heat when the winter months come.