If you have an energy efficient furnace, you know winter is when it’s going to start paying for itself. These innovative HVAC systems can help cut back the amount of energy or gas needed to heat your home compared to older and less efficient models. With winter creeping upon us here in Auburn, we’ve prepared some simple steps you can take to ensure your furnace will work efficiently and effectively all 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 Auburn only to find out it’s not running properly. It’s important to have a professional 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 equipment operate smoothly, but it will help increase the energy efficiency of your furnace, as well.
2. Check your heat exchanger.
Fractured or improperly functioning heat exchangers mix combustion gases with your home’s air, which could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Simply check your furnace’s combustion chamber for cracks. If you notice 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 operating correctly, the equipment doesn’t have to work as hard or use as much energy to generate the heat you desire.
3. Change your air filter.
If you haven’t changed your filter in a while, now’s the time. Clean filters may help improve your furnace’s air flow and could lead to better energy efficiency, as well. Pleated, HEPA and electrostatic filters can also help improve 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 season. Or, if you’re ready for a repair, Forster Heating offers a number of energy efficient furnaces. We’re happy to walk you through the latest and greatest HVAC systems available in Auburn.