If you’ve upgraded to an energy efficient furnace, you know the winter months are when it’s going to really pay off. These state-of-the-art HVAC systems can help decrease 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 Manassas, we’ve prepared some essential steps you can take to ensure your furnace will work efficiently and effectively all season.
1. Schedule a routine service visit before winter weather arrives.
You don’t want to turn on your furnace on the first cold day in Manassas only to find out it’s not operating properly. It’s important to have a HVAC professional inspect your system, as these individuals have been trained and certified to ensure your HVAC equipment is safe and working well. Regular service visits 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.
Cracked or improperly functioning heat exchangers mix combustion gases with your home’s air, which could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Simply inspect your furnace’s combustion chamber for cracks. If you notice strange odors coming from the heater after a while, shut it off and call a professional. Your heat exchanger is an important factor in creating an energy efficient furnace. When it functions properly, 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.
When’s the last time you changed your filter? Now is the time. Clean filters may help improve your system’s air flow and can contribute to better energy efficiency, as well. Pleated, HEPA and electrostatic filters can also help enhance 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.
Try these steps to create a more energy efficient home this winter season. Or, if you’re in need of a repair, Woody's Sudden Service Inc offers a number of energy efficient furnaces. We’re happy to help you choose the latest and greatest HVAC systems available in Manassas.