If you’ve upgraded to an energy efficient furnace, you know winter is when it’s going to show its return on investement. These innovative HVAC systems can help cut back the amount of energy or gas needed to heat your home compared to older and less efficient models. With winter drawing nearer here in West Columbia, we’ve prepared some essential steps you can take to ensure your furnace will work efficiently and effectively throughout the season.
1. Schedule a routine service visit before winter weather arrives.
The last thing you want is to turn on your furnace on the first cold day in West Columbia only to realize it’s not working properly. It’s important to have a professional inspect your equipment, as these individuals have been trained and certified to ensure your HVAC system is safe and working the right way. Keeping your equipment regularly maintained will not only help the furnace operate smoothly, but it will help increase the energy efficiency of your furnace, as well.
2. Check your heat exchanger.
Fractured or improperly functioning heat exchangers mix combustion gases with clean air, potentially creating problems with carbon monoxide poisoning. Simply inspect your furnace’s combustion chamber for cracks. If you detect strange odors coming from the heater after a period of time, shut it off and call a professional. Your heat exchanger is an important factor in creating an energy efficient furnace. When it’s operating correctly, the equipment doesn’t have to work as hard or use as much energy to provide your family with the heat you desire.
3. Change your air filter.
When’s the last time you changed your filter? Now is the time. Clean filters will help improve your equipment’s air flow and can contribute to better energy efficiency, as well. Pleated, HEPA and electrostatic filters can also help improve the furnace’s energy efficiency, so consider upgrading if you’re currently using a flat filter. We recommend checking your filter once a month to see whether it needs to be changed.
Try these steps to create a more energy efficient home this winter. Or, if you’re due for a repair, Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. offers a number of energy efficient furnaces. We’re happy to help you choose the latest and greatest HVAC systems available in West Columbia.