A clean and well-maintained furnace can keep you and your family safe. Plus, it can save you money on your monthly utility bill by making sure your furnace is running at maximum efficiency.
When arranging for furnace tune-up services, make sure you select a specialist who provides these services:
- Visually inspect combustion chamber for cracks, burnouts and other problems
- Inspect and clean main burner assembly
- Inspect and clean blower compartment
- Check for improper pulley alignment
- Lubricate the blower and motor as needed
- Visually inspect heating accessories (i.e. humidifier)
- Check thermostat operation and other controls
- Check filters and belts and advise about replacement
- Test for proper combustion air and for spillage at the draft diverter
WINTER ENERGY-SAVING TIPS
INDOOR TIPS:
1. Install a programmable setback thermostat. This can be an effective way to control heating costs, allowing the thermostat to be set for a cooler temperature while you are away from home and at night while you are sleeping.
2. Check the furnace filter monthly and replace or clean it as needed. Old or dirty filters cause equipment to work harder, resulting in energy waste and possible internal damage. If you have a reusable/washable filter, make sure that it has completely dried prior to reinstalling.
3. A humidifier can help control heating costs because the moist air will feel warmer, allowing the thermostat to be set at a lower temperature. If your home has a humidifier, it may be necessary to clean the water reservoir to prevent mold or mildew buildup.
4. Adjust register opening in the home. Remember that heat rises, so registers should be partially closed upstairs. The return register/grille must remain free of obstructions such as furniture, lint, dust or pet hair for the system to operate properly.
5. Use draperies, blinds, curtains or shutters on all windows to slow the loss of heat through the glass. Keep window coverings open on sunny days to let in the sun's warmth.
6. Rearrange furniture, placing it next to inside walls and away from windows. Avoid blocking registers with furniture, draperies or carpet. Items stored near the furnace are fire hazards. They may also obstruct combustion air supply, This could cause complete combustion and the production of carbon monoxide gas. Your furnace or blower coil could be located in a closet, attic or basement. Removing clutter applies to your equipment no matter where it is located.
7. Use kitchen, bath and other ventilation sparingly. In just one hour, these fans can exhaust a houseful of warm air.
8. Make sure the mountings on ceiling fans are snug and tight. Use clear caulking to seal any leaks or minor cracks around them.
9. Purchase inexpensive, pre-cut insulation gaskets and seal out cold air entering the home through electrical switches and outlet plates.
10. Closets and cabinets on outside walls can leak a great deal of cold air, so make sure the doors fit snugly and keep them tightly closed.
OUTDOOR TIPS:
1. Trim brush and shrubbery near outdoor unties to prevent airflow obstruction. Leaves trash or shrubs crowding the air conditioner or heat pump cause the unit to work harder and use more energy. Also remove any debris that may have collected around the unit.
2. Clean the outdoor coil. The outdoor coil on an air conditioner or heat pump can sometimes become obstructed by grass clippings, leaves, dust, etc. Use a garden hose to gently run water over the coil, removing unwanted obstructions.
3. Make sure the outdoor unit remains level. Ground shifting or settling can cause an air conditioner or heat pump to sit in an uneven position. If this happens, re-level the unit to make sure water/moisture drain from the cabinet properly.
