The Winter Solstice is this Thursday, the 21st of December, and that means it’s going to be getting even colder outside, and for longer. While our homes protect us from the elements, freezing temperatures are one of the few things that can still make it inside and make us cold and uncomfortable. Your furnace is your biggest defense against this, so keeping it running warm and efficiently is essential to staying warm and cozy during these cold months. There are several things that can affect your furnace’s performance, and while some require repair experts to fix, some can be done by you right at home.
Thermostat Errors
The thermostat is one of the first places you should check if your furnace isn’t keeping your house warm. Sometimes the thermostat is simply not set correctly, and sometimes it is malfunctioning entirely. First, make sure your thermostat is set to keep your home to a comfortable temperature, and that the “heat” or similar setting is enabled. If your thermostat isn’t responding, the wiring may be faulty or the batteries could be dead, depending on the unit. Check your batteries regularly and replace them if they aren’t working properly. If the wiring is faulty, you may need to consult a repair expert to get it fixed, but sometimes it can just come down to a loose wire. If the wiring/batteries are good, then the thermostat itself may need to be reset or replaced.
Faulty Filters
Filters are one of the most forgotten yet essential components of your heating system. Filters will get dirty over time, no matter how clean the home is. The dirtier a filter gets, the less efficient your heating system will be. As a filter gets clogged with dust and other particulates, it prevents proper airflow to the furnace, which minimizes its heating potential. The easiest way to fix this issue it to replace your filters regularly. Each furnace will have different recommendations for filter replacement times, typically between one and three months, but the best way to go is to check your filters once a month and replace them if they’re dirty.
Mechanical Issues
If the thermostat or filters aren’t the problem, your furnace may have a more serious issue. There are a few other simple things to check, such as making sure the furnace’s breaker hasn’t flipped or that your heater vents aren’t blocked, but more serious issues should be worked out with a repair professional. Electrical, gas, ventilation, and others could be severely inhibiting your heating system, and could be dangerous to attempt to fix on your own. The safest and most effective plan is to contact an expert team, such as Air Handlers, to evaluate and fix your heater so you and your family can remain warm.