The weather outside if frightful, but your furnace is meant to keep your home feeling delightful. Your HVAC system keeps you comfy and warm during the frigid winter months, but if your system is in need of repair it could be making you sick. As you've taken all the suggestions on how to keep your home as energy-efficient this chilly season, you're also sealing off your home from fresh air. This could cause a rise in both allergens and pollutants. Your annual furnace repair appointment will help keep your air clean and comfortable year-round. There are also some steps you can take between your once-a-year maintenance visits to protect your air quality and health.
Check and Change Your Air Filter
Checking and changing your furnace filter is one of the most crucial things you can do between furnace repair and maintenance visits. It's highly recommended that furnace filters be changed at least every 3 months (some longer), but it's wise to check it monthly for debris. This is especially important if you live in a home with smokers or pets. Pollen, pet dander, dust mites and assorted debris more easily build up in unclean filters and that affects the health of those with sensitivities. A dirty filter will also cause a decline in your system's efficiency and lifespan.
Regular Cleaning
It's highly unlikely you'll be able to open windows and let in fresh air during the winter months and your carpets and furniture will build up all types of indoor pollutants. Keep your home as well-kept as possible during this cold time of year. Not only will you be ready for any pop-in guests, but you'll keep the dust from disrupting your allergies or blocking your air filter. If you don't have one already, a good investment is a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
Furnace Repair and Maintenance
Yearly furnace repair and maintenance is not just for the life of your furnace, but also for your health. If you're using a gas furnace, your home is heated by natural gas or propane. Carbon Monoxide is a natural derivative of furnace operation. When your system is operating well, CO is channeled out of the home through an exhaust pipe. Your yearly maintenance will find any leaks and and make sure it is operating properly.
Your home is your sanctuary. We want to do what's best for you to keep you as healthy and comfortable as possible. Call us at 478-202-3170 and speak with one of our furnace repair technicians if you have any questions about keeping your furnace and air quality in tip-top shape this season.