If you have an energy efficient furnace, you know the winter months are when it’s going to show its return on investement. These state-of-the-art HVAC systems can help reduce the amount of energy or gas required to heat your home compared to older and less efficient models. With winter creeping upon us here in Troy, we’ve prepared some essential steps you can take to ensure your furnace will operate efficiently and effectively throughout the season.
1. Schedule a regular maintenance visit before winter weather arrives.
You won’t want to start the season by turning on your furnace on the first cold day in Troy only to realize it’s not operating properly. It’s important to have a HVAC technician inspect your equipment, as these individuals have been trained and certified to ensure your HVAC system is safe and working well. Keeping your equipment regularly maintained will not only help the furnace operate smoothly, but it will help improve the energy efficiency of your furnace, as well.
2. Check your heat exchanger.
Cracked or improperly functioning heat exchangers mix combustion gases with clean air, potentially creating problems with carbon monoxide poisoning. This inspection is easy – just inspect your furnace’s combustion chamber for cracks. If you smell strange odors coming from the heater after a period of time, shut it off and call a professional. Your heat exchanger is an important part of creating an energy efficient furnace. When it’s working properly, the equipment doesn’t have to work as hard or use as much energy to produce the heat you desire.
3. Change your air filter.
It’s a good idea to change your filters regularly, and just before winter hits is a great time. Clean filters can help improve your system’s air flow and may lead to better energy efficiency, as well. Pleated, HEPA and electrostatic filters can also help increase 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.
Follow these steps to create a more energy efficient home this winter. Or, if you’re ready for a repair, Edington Heating & Cooling Inc offers a wide range of energy efficient furnaces. We’re happy to help you choose the latest and greatest HVAC systems available in Troy.