Furnace breakdowns can be a little scary and incredibly inconvenient, especially in the dead of winter. To help you avoid a cold-weather emergency, Besco Air Inc. Heating & Cooling experts are sharing six simple tips you can use to help keep your furnace running safely and smoothly:
Don’t forgo annual system maintenance—it’s the easiest way to avoid a failure. During routine maintenance, a technician will inspect, clean, and adjust vital parts, and also fix any small problems before they get worse or cause your system to shut down. Even if your furnace seems to be running well, it’s not too late to have it cleaned—give us a call to schedule your annual maintenance appointment.
Replace air filters regularly to promote good air quality and system efficiency. When filters become clogged with dust, dirt, and other contaminants, air can’t get through, making your system work harder and more likely to break down. This simple task gives your system the boost it needs to keep you warm all winter long.
Be aware of odd smells. The first few times you use your furnace each season, you might notice a slight burning scent, which is normal as built up dust burns off. Other odors—like chemicals, electrical burning, rotten eggs, or smoke—indicate a serious issue at hand. Contact a professional about abnormal scents to avoid dangerous situations and prevent additional expensive problems.
Make sure all vents are open. Many homeowners believe closing vents helps direct heat where they want it and limits energy wasted on heating unused rooms. In reality, closing off unused spaces can cause serious problems.
Furnaces are specifically sized to fit your home to maximize output and efficiency. When sections are closed off, your system cannot function at its full capacity and may cycle incorrectly. Frequent short cycles can actually shorten the unit’s lifespan. Take a moment to make sure all your vents are open and clear of any blockages.
Swap out thermostat batteries—it might be surprising, but many furnace malfunctions are simply the result of dead batteries. Without working batteries, your thermostat shuts down and your furnace stops running. Replace your batteries twice a year to prevent an unnecessary interruption of comfort.
When in doubt, call a professional. DIY furnace maintenance and service can be dangerous if you don’t fully understand these complex systems. If you suspect something might be wrong, give Besco Air a call—we guarantee professional, expert service.
Friendly reminder: don’t forget to replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to keep your family safe this winter. If you have a question or concern about anything in this blog, reach out to our team for professional advice.