Table of Contents
Winter is a beautiful time of year, where the snow glitters in the sunshine and everyone can enjoy a hot cup of cocoa while they watch their breath frost in the frigid air. Unfortunately, winter also brings with it dry air that can wreak havoc on our skin, sinuses, and respiratory systems.
With regular furnace maintenance being key to combating the effects of dry winter air, here are 8 tips for making sure your furnace is running properly this season:
1. Hire A Professional To Inspect Your System Annually
Having a professional inspect your system annually and conduct regular maintenance is the best way to make sure that all components are functioning properly and operating in top condition. The inspection can also provide an opportunity for a technician to detect any potential problems before they become bigger issues down the line.
2. Change Or Clean your Filter Regularly
Your home’s filter is an often overlooked component when it comes to maintaining your furnace during the cold months. Changing or cleaning your filter regularly will help keep dust from clogging up essential components and reduce the workload on your furnace, making it run more efficiently.
3. Make Sure All Ducts Are Properly Sealed
During winter months, one of the biggest culprits for dry air is leaky ducts that allow warm air to escape without being filtered first. Ensuring all seams are sealed with caulking or metal-backed tape will maximize efficiency and ensure you’re not wasting energy and money.
4. Check For Blockages In Your Vents
It’s important to make sure that all vents are clear of dust, dirt, and debris, as a clogged vent could potentially lead to an overheating furnace or even a fire. Checking these regularly will help ensure your furnace is running efficiently and safely.
5. Install A Humidifier
Adding moisture back into the air via a humidifier can do wonders for combating dry winter air in your home. Installing one will also help relieve respiratory issues associated with dry air such as asthma and allergies, making it easier to breathe during the cold months.
6. Insulate Heating Ducts That Run Through Unheated Spaces
Insulating the heating ducts that run through unheated spaces such as attics and crawl spaces will reduce the amount of warm air escaping from the system, leading to increased efficiency in your furnace.
7. Use A Programmable Thermostat
To help maintain desired indoor temperatures while keeping energy costs low, consider installing a programmable thermostat in your home. This device allows you to program different temperatures throughout the day, helping you save money on utility bills without sacrificing comfort.
8. Utilize Zone Heating
Zone heating is an excellent way to maximize the efficiency of your furnace during winter months, as it allows you to only heat rooms that are used most often. By using zone heating, you can save energy and money while still keeping the rooms you use most comfortable. This technique also helps maintain desired indoor temperatures while reducing utility bills at the same time.
Additionally, zone heating gives homeowners more control over their home’s temperature, allowing them to customize various areas to suit their preferences and comfort levels. With all these benefits in mind, it is easy to see why utilizing zone heating is a great choice for anyone looking for an efficient and cost-effective way of controlling the climate in their home this winter.
In Conclusion
Winter brings with it dry air that can lead to some uncomfortable situations, but fortunately there are ways to combat these effects with regular furnace maintenance. With proper filter changes, duct sealing, and the use of zone heating and humidifiers, you’ll be able to keep your furnace running smoothly all season long! By incorporating these 8 tips into your routine maintenance practices, you’ll ensure a healthy home for this winter and many more seasons to come.