As winter approaches Calgary, the importance of having a reliable furnace can't be overstated. With temperatures often dipping below -20°C, ensuring your heating system operates efficiently is crucial. Having faced a furnace breakdown in the depths of winter, I realized that regular maintenance makes a big difference. It can save you both hassle and money. Here are essential furnace maintenance tips every Calgary homeowner should know.
Understanding Your Furnace
Understanding how your furnace works is the first step in maintaining it. Key components of a furnace include the blower, heat exchanger, and thermostat.
Blower: This moves air through the ducts into your home.
Heat Exchanger: This heats the air before circulating it.
Thermostat: This controls when the furnace turns on and off.
Recognizing how these parts operate can help you identify problems before they worsen. For example, a malfunctioning blower might cost you an additional 10%-30% on your energy bills if it's not working efficiently.
Change Your Filters Regularly
Changing your furnace filters is one of the most straightforward maintenance tasks that can lead to significant benefits. Clogged filters impede airflow, causing your furnace to work harder and likely lead to overheating.
Check your filters monthly, especially during the peak winter months. If they look dirty, it's time to replace them. While the cost of replacing a filter is typically around $10 to $30, the benefits can include a 5% increase in efficiency and an overall prolongation of your furnace's lifespan, saving you from a costly breakdown.
Inspect the Thermostat
The thermostat acts as the control centre for your heating system. If it's malfunctioning, temperatures in your home will likely become inconsistent, and your energy bills could spiral.
Try adjusting the thermostat a few degrees above room temperature. If the furnace doesn’t respond, consider recalibrating or replacing it. Additionally, upgrading to a smart thermostat could result in savings of 10%-15% on your heating costs by optimizing your heating schedule.
Clear the Vents
Blocked vents significantly reduce your furnace's efficiency. Ensure that all air vents are free of dust, furniture, and other obstacles that might restrict airflow.
Regularly vacuum the vents in each room to remove dust buildup. A well-maintained vent system can improve overall heating efficiency, preventing a 20% reduction in airflow that can occur if they are blocked.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
Even with regular DIY maintenance, don't overlook the value of professional inspections. It’s recommended to schedule this service once a year, ideally before winter sets in.
During a professional inspection, a technician can clean essential components and check for gas leaks. This can potentially save you anywhere from 15% to 25% on your energy bills by ensuring that the system runs optimally.
Listen for Unusual Noises
While some noises are normal, strange sounds like banging or rattling can signal a problem.
Investigate any unusual noises right away. Loose screws or debris may cause them, but it could also indicate something more serious. If you hear concerning noises, a professional heating service in Calgary can perform a thorough diagnosis and help prevent more extensive damage, which might cost hundreds of dollars in repairs.
Check the Exhaust Flue
The exhaust flue is essential for venting combustion gases outside your home. Regularly check it for obstructions like snow, ice, or debris that could lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
After heavy snowfall, inspect the exterior flue to ensure it remains clear. This could prevent serious health risks to you and your family, making safety checks an important routine.
Monitor Your Energy Bills
Watching your energy bills can offer important clues about your furnace's performance. If you see a spike in costs, it can suggest your system is not working efficiently.
Checking your bills can help you identify problems early. For example, a 15% increase in your monthly bills could indicate it’s time for maintenance or repair. By being proactive, you can potentially avoid a major malfunction that could arise in the colder months.
Maintain a Safe Environment
Your safety is paramount. Regularly check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are in working order.
Installing and maintaining these alarms provides extra peace of mind, especially when relying on your furnace for heat. As a Calgary homeowner, you want to ensure your home stays safe during the cold months.
Keeping Your Furnace Healthy
Taking care of your furnace for winter isn't just about checking routines; it ensures your comfort and safety when temperatures plunge outside. By incorporating these maintenance tasks—changing filters, scheduling professional inspections, and actively monitoring your bills—you will help keep your furnace running smoothly and efficiently.
As a homeowner in Calgary, you deserve a dependable heating and cooling service for winter furnace maintenance. Being proactive with these steps can save you from the discomfort of a furnace breakdown. Your comfort this winter relies on how well you maintain your heating system.
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