Simple Ways to Avoid Calling for Furnace Repair this Winter

January 27, 2016

Simple Ways to Avoid Calling for Furnace Repair This Winter

We always rely on our furnace in the winter, whether we recognize that we are or not. To ensure that your furnace doesn’t shock you with any breakdowns or trouble for the rest of the winter, check that you are up to date with annual furnace maintenance. In addition to these annual tune-ups, there are some simple checks that you can complete yourself on your furnace system and reduce the possibilities of emergency furnace repair, such as:

  1. Checking your thermostat - your furnace problems could be as straightforward as exhausted batteries in your thermostat. While your system will generally give you a month’s caution before the battery dies, it’s not difficult to overlook the beep or light signal. If you check and your batteries are fine, double check that your thermostat is set to “heat” instead of “cool.” It can also be easy to not remember to adjust this setting during the temperature changes, and you never know who’s been messing with your thermostat. Still no luck? You may have to alter your fan setting to “on” rather than “auto.” This will keep your fan propelling air, regardless if your furnace is heating. But bear in mind if you make this switch, you must also remember to…

  2. Change your air filters - furnace breakdowns are typically caused by dirty filters-- from the dirt and particles that gather on your filter. This can cause your furnace to overwork and can even give off a funny, burnt smell when turned on. Replacing your furnace filters are the simplest way keep your furnace working well.

  3. Keeping your air vents open – 1.many people think that sealing vents to vacant rooms is wise and it seems like it would save you money. But closing off vents often makes your system to work harder and can cause distress on your furnace. Temperatures in heated rooms will seep into other unheated rooms through indoor, uninsulated walls and cause unevenness in the comfort of your home.

By observing these straightforward pieces of advice and keeping up with your scheduled furnace service, your furnace should function effortlessly and efficiently all through the season. If you haven’t booked your furnace tune-up yet for this year, give our specialists at Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning in Bishop a call at 760-784-9034.