Dealing With Your Furnace

 
In the dead of winter, the last thing someone wants is an issue with their furnace. However, as with most mechanical items in our homes there can be common problems that could cause it not function correctly and therefore not produce the warm home we need. Some of these problems you may experience include a furnace that produces no heat which could be caused by a thermostat problem, a pilot light that is out, or maybe even an electrical issue.

Another issue you may have is that your furnace is not producing enough heat. This could be as simple as an obstructed air flow problem or your gas burners needing adjustments. Alternatively your furnace could have problems that cause it to turn off and on in an excessive amount. This might be caused by the dirty air filter or something more serious such as a problem with the blower motor.

Benefits of Timely Repairs

There are several reasons why you should conduct timely repairs on your furnace and your overall HVAC system. First, it will cost you less over the life of your system if you conduct the maintenance and repairs when they are called for vice waiting until you need the system to be functional because of the weather outside.

Second, these systems are mechanical in nature and engineers are constantly looking for ways to improve them. Waiting to make the repairs could put your system in danger of becoming an out of date and obsolete system. When this occurs there are no longer repair parts and it may call for a total replacement of your system. Another reason and the most important reason for conducting the timely repairs on your furnace are for the safety of your home and system. As previously mentioned, these furnace systems are mechanical in nature that are run on either electricity or gas. An issue with these systems could be a sign of a serious problem that could potentially be a fire hazard.

When to Call a Professional

With any potential repair of an HVAC system, a homeowner needs to understand what they can do themselves and when it’s time to call a professional. For this there is a simple litmus test, first can you identify what is wrong with your system? Second, is the repair within your rational scope of knowledge? Obviously some repairs such as changing out an air filter, or thermostat, or maybe relighting a pilot light are probably easy fixes for most homeowners. But the idea of changing out a blower motor, or checking its belts maybe something that is better left to a professional HVAC contractor.

Looking to hire professional HVAC technicians for your Cedar Falls home’s furnace repair? Call Dalton Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling Inc. at (319) 266-3513 for our quick and efficient services. 

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How Often Should I Have Furnace Tune-Up Services?

Fall is here and with it cooler temperatures. This is the time to regularly change your furnace filter and have your furnace checked out. Because you will be using your heating system more often and a great deal of air will be flowing through your ducts and into your home, it is important to ensure that your furnace is in good shape.

Winter Months Require Frequent Furnace Filter Changes

During winter months it is important to change your furnace filter regularly to keep the air in your home safe and healthy. Because you and your family will be staying inside more, it is important to inspect your air filter once a month and change them every two to three months.

Damage Can Occur From Clogged Furnace Filters

Air filters collect small particles of pet dander, pollen, dust throughout the day and before long they can become clogged. When filters become clogged, it causes the blower to work harder, which in turn, increases your energy bill. If the blower overheats, it can burn out. Keep in mind, that when air flow is reduced, it takes longer to heat your home.

Inadequate Heating Systems: Can Lead to Carbon Monoxide Exposure
One of the most effective things you can do to prevent a build up of dust and dander is to change your furnace filter regularly. Most importantly, your furnace should be checked once a year. Inadequate heating systems can lead to carbon monoxide exposure. It is the heat exchanger that should be inspected thoroughly once a year. The heat exchanger acts as a barrier between your home and the gases and fumes produced by your furnace.

Annual Furnace Inspections Keep your Heating Systems in Good Repair

It is important to note that in addition to safety, an annual furnace inspection is an effective way to protect the investment you have in your heating system. There are several reasons way furnaces fail such as humidity, improper installation, dirty filters and improper venting.

To conclude, furnaces need regular care and maintenance in order to keep them in good repair. Besides the above mentioned steps, always keep the area around your furnace clean and unobstructed, and most importantly, leave the furnace work to HVAC experts.

Serving your Cedar Falls community everyday. Give Dalton Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Inc. a call at (319) 266-3513 for guaranteed quality furnace inspection services!

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Posted in Cedar Falls Blog, Cedar Falls HVAC, Furnace Tune-Up | Comments Off on It's Getting Chilly Out There!