December is one of the most hectic times of the year for many Oregonians. Focusing on the magic of the holiday season is important, so when an unexpected furnace breakdown happens, it can be stressful and inconvenient. However, by taking some steps now to prepare your furnace for the colder winter months, you won’t have the stress that comes with an expensive furnace repair. Here are some tips on how to ensure your home – and your holiday season – stays warm and comfortable.
Have Your Furnace Professionally Inspected.
One of the best ways to prevent mid-winter furnace problems is to have our team of professionals at Specialty Heating and Cooling service your machine. A professional tune-up includes a thorough look – inside and out – of the machine. We will also clean or replace air filters, run an energy-efficiency check, and ensure all parts are working and lubricated properly. If we notice anything out of the ordinary, we will talk to you about what needs to be fixed. Routine maintenance extends the life of your system and improves efficiency, which translates to lower energy bills, too.
Don’t Neglect the Air Filters.
Air filters might seem like a small detail in the scheme of home maintenance products, but if you don’t clean or replace them regularly, you could have a big headache on your hands. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, causing your furnace to work harder and increase your risk for a machine failure. Dirty filters also reduce indoor air quality, which can lead to sickness, asthma, or other problems. We recommend cleaning or replacing filters every other month. If you have pets or smoke in the home, filters should be changed more often.
Make Sure the Outdoor Unit is Free and Clear.
Don’t store items around the outdoor furnace unit. Move boxes, household items, dirt, debris, or other yard products away from the machine. Clutter around the unit can block airflow, create fire hazards, and make professional tune-ups more difficult. We recommend keeping at least three feet clear around your furnace.
Install a Programmable Thermostat.
A programmable thermostat works alongside virtually any furnace system and can help keep your home’s temperature steady and comfortable – no matter how cold it is outside. Planning to take a holiday trip? Or do you work away from the home during the day? Program the thermostat to turn down while you’re away, then back up before you return. This simple change can save energy and helps reduce unnecessary wear and tear on your furnace.
Don’t Ignore Unusual Sounds or Smells.
Most of the time, furnace systems will warn you when something isn’t right. So, if you notice any strange sounds like banging, rattling, or clicking, don’t ignore that. If you notice burning or metallic smells or notice that the machine is frequently cycling on and off, turn it off and call our licensed team at Specialty Heating and Cooling.
Winter is the time when your furnace system is put to the test. If you’re not sure it will last for another season, let us help! We can help find a reliable, energy-efficient system that fits your budget. Call us today to get your free quote for a new system, or to schedule your maintenance or repair appointment.