From the Middle Ages until a little less than a century ago, a home’s heating system was limited to one or two primary rooms with hearths. Today, modern heating systems and ductwork distribute heat to every room of a house. With this convenience, however, comes the responsibility of keeping the heating system in your Frederick, Maryland, home operating as efficiently as possible. By changing air filters, upgrading your thermostat, and scheduling regular HVAC system maintenance, you can maximize your furnace’s heating efficiency this winter.
Change the Air Filter
During the winter, change the air filter in your furnace monthly. When dust and debris accumulate on the filter, these particles can build up and affect the furnace’s longevity and heating efficiency. In addition, a dirty air filter can contribute to poor indoor air quality in your home.
The type of furnace you have will determine what type of care you need for the air filter. If your furnace uses a disposable fiberglass filter, replace the dirty filter with a new one. If you have a metal or plastic filter, you can clean it with water, let it dry, and replace it. To locate the filter in your furnace, look for it in the slot between the furnace and the return air duct.
Upgrade Your Thermostat
HVAC systems are controlled by specific types of thermostats such as manual, programmable, smart, and Wi-Fi–enabled thermostats. If you have a manual or a non-programmable thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save money on energy costs during the winter if you lower the thermostat when you’re asleep or away from home. With a programmable thermostat, you can adjust temperatures in your home according to a pre-set schedule. This feature is useful if, for example, you forget to turn down the heat before leaving the house. You can also program the thermostat to increase the temperature at certain times during the day, such as before you get home from work. As a result, your furnace can heat your home more efficiently.
Schedule HVAC System Maintenance
When you need a furnace tuneup, give us a call. Our service technicians will check the following parts to be sure they are operating correctly:
- The flue (this duct or opening expels pollutants through a chimney and it must remain free from obstructions).
- The heat exchanger (if cracks develop in the heat exchanger, these cracks can introduce carbon monoxide into a home).
- The thermostat.
- The combustion chamber.
- The fuel output.
- The airflow.
- Belts and motors.
Your service technician should also seal the furnace duct connections, if necessary, clean off soot, and oil the blower.
By scheduling regular HVAC system maintenance with our service technicians, you can ensure the best operating performance possible from your furnace, and you’ll save money on energy costs. As a result, you won’t have to worry about your house being too warm or too cold, you’ll reap the benefits of energy savings, and you’ll identify parts of your furnace that need repairs before small problems become big ones.
Seal Your Home
Sealing your home can help boost your furnace’s heating efficiency. Warm air can escape your home through door and window openings and other areas that can permit cold air to enter your home from the outside. A home energy audit is helpful for identifying the sources of air leaks so that you can take the necessary steps to seal your home. For example, an attic can be a source for the greatest heat loss in a house. Making sure your attic is adequately insulated can help you hold on to as much heat in your home as possible.
Whether you have a gas furnace, oil furnace, or electric heat pump as your heating system, our technicians offer annual heating maintenance agreements that cover regular tuneups. Call Griffith Energy Services today to schedule an appointment. Having our professionals service your furnace can help extend its life span and keep it operating as efficiently as possible to control your home’s energy costs.
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