Running your furnace efficiently and effectively during extreme cold weather helps maintain the comfort of your home. If your heating unit isn’t working properly, schedule a furnace repair service with a professional technician. Here are some tips for keeping your furnace running in extreme cold weather:
Replace Filters Regularly
Air filters can become clogged with dust, dirt, and other particles over time. When airflow is restricted, your furnace must work harder to circulate warm air throughout your home. This may result in increased energy bills. Dirty air filters can also cause extra wear on the system’s components as they work to heat your home.
A clean air filter allows your furnace to operate more efficiently, which leads to energy savings. Clean filters also help maintain consistent airflow and temperature distribution throughout your home, boosting comfort. Replacing your filters regularly allows the furnace to perform optimally and extends its lifespan. Clean filters also prevent the circulation of dust, pollen, and pet dander, improving indoor air quality.
Adjust Thermostat Settings
Incorrect thermostat readings can cause your heating system to operate inefficiently. Hire an HVAC technician to calibrate your home’s thermostat to reflect the actual temperature in your home. This enables more precise control of your heating system. A programmable digital thermostat allows you to schedule temperature adjustments based on your daily routine. Program the thermostat to lower the temperature while you’re away from home and raise it when you’re active and require more warmth.
If your home has multiple heating zones or rooms with different temperature requirements, implement zone heating strategies. This involves controlling the temperature independently in different areas of the house using separate thermostats or zoning systems. By heating occupied areas only when needed, you can improve energy efficiency and reduce costs. Keep the temperature in your home warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing during extreme cold spells.
Inspect Chimney and Flue
Debris, such as leaves, branches, and bird nests, can accumulate within the chimney and flue. This prevents the proper venting of combustion gases from the furnace, causing them to back up into your home. Debris buildup also prevents your furnace from operating efficiently. During a furnace repair service, a technician examines the interior walls of the chimney for creosote buildup, soot deposits, and other obstructions that may hinder airflow.
A chimney inspection also involves examining the flue. An HVAC technician will check the flue liner for cracks, gaps, or deterioration that could compromise its ability to contain combustion gases. After inspection, a qualified technician uses specialized tools and equipment to remove obstructions from the chimney’s interior. They will patch the cracks and gaps in the flue and chimney to boost ventilation and improve your furnace’s heating capacity.
Check Air Ducts
Leaks in ductwork can cause significant heat loss, reducing the efficiency of your furnace and increasing energy bills during cold weather. Leaky ducts may cause uneven heating or cooling throughout your home. They also allow dust and debris to enter the ducts, reducing indoor air quality. If you notice a decrease in furnace function, hire an HVAC technician to conduct a thorough inspection of the entire duct system. They will inspect inaccessible areas using tools such as cameras and pressure gauges.
If the air ducts are dirty, technicians clean them to improve indoor air quality, enhance proper airflow, and optimize heating system performance. Technicians may recommend duct replacement for air ducts that are severely damaged, deteriorated, or improperly sized. HVAC technicians use duct sealing products, such as foil tape approved by industry standards, for long-lasting and effective repairs.
Monitor Furnace Sounds
Banging sounds may be caused by loose or broken furnace components hitting other parts as the heating system operates. A technician will tighten loose components, replace worn-out parts, or lubricate moving parts to eliminate the noises. Clicking noises indicate issues with the furnace’s ignition system, such as a faulty igniter or gas valve. Cleaning the igniter and adjusting the gas valve helps eliminate clicking noises and return the furnace to optimal function.
Humming noises can indicate electrical issues within the furnace, such as a malfunctioning transformer or relay. An experienced technician will replace damaged wiring or repair faulty electrical components to eliminate the humming or buzzing sound. High-pitched squealing noises may be caused by slipping blower belts or bearings. A technician can adjust or replace the blower belts or bearings to eliminate the squealing noises. Monitoring these sounds and scheduling the appropriate repairs keeps your furnace running correctly during extreme cold weather.
Schedule an Appointment for Furnace Repair
Uneven heating, strange noises, and poor indoor air quality are some signs your furnace needs repair. An HVAC professional will inspect and fix various furnace components to boost heating efficiency during winter months. Contact a heating and cooling company today to schedule an appointment for furnace repair and prepare your furnace for cold weather.