Ways Homeowners Inadvertently Work Their Furnace Too Hard

For the most part, most homeowners don’t give their furnace much thought as long as it is working properly. But the moment something goes wrong and the furnace breaks down it can turn a cold night into something much worse. Suddenly homeowners have to pay attention and call for furnace repair in Cupertino, CA. And if the furnace is beyond repair they will be spending thousands of dollars to keep their home warm. What homeowners don’t realize is they may have been overworking their furnace. Here are a few things to watch for:

Not Turning the Thermostat Down When Away from Home

The best way for homeowners to reduce the workload on an HVAC system in winter is to make sure to run the furnace less while they are away and while they are asleep. Programmable and smart thermostats make the task easy. Homeowners can set the temperatures throughout the day to match their schedule. They should lower it to mid-60s while at work, and trigger it to kick on just before returning home.

Letting Cold Air Inside the Home

Did you grow up hearing your mother constantly reminding you to close the door? Turns out she was right. It can be almost impossible for a furnace to heat a home while cold air keeps getting inside. And if it isn’t open doors causing the drafts homeowners might consider insulating the walls or investing in new windows to better trap the heat inside. This can also help indoor air maintain humidity better, so it isn’t as dry inside the home.

Cranking Up the Thermostat When Cold

Many homeowners crank up the thermostat a few extra degrees in hopes that it will pump out hot air faster. This isn’t how the furnace works. All that does is force the furnace to run longer until the room reaches the desired temperature. Homeowners cannot hurry the furnace along. So instead of touching the thermostat, it would be better to pull on a sweater or sit under some blankets instead of overheating the home.

Blocking the Vents with Furniture

Keeping vents free of obstructions provides an even distribution of warm air. And if a vent is in the exact location where they want to place a sofa, they will sacrifice quality of heating. And if the homeowners are determined to leave the couch where it is, there are vent covers homeowners can purchase. These products help push heat along the floor instead of straight up into the couch. It will at least help in part to distribute the air into the room.

Neglecting to Change the Filters

Most homeowners know the importance of regularly changing out the air filters on their HVAC system. But few know exactly how often to check them and change them. During peak usage, homeowners should check vents every thirty days, and swap them out when they are clogged. An easy way to check is to hold them up to see if light filters through. If not, time for a new filter.

Skipping Annual Maintenance

Just like drivers shouldn’t skip an oil change, homeowners shouldn’t miss annual furnace repair in Cupertino, CA. To schedule an appointment call Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning at (408) 978-7060. Or stop by 1045 N 10th St., San Jose, CA 95112 with questions.