5 Tips for Efficient Furnace Operation
As we move again into heating season, the cost of keeping homes warm becomes a big worry for a lot of families. It’s true that heating fuel can be very expensive, but there are ways to reduce the amount of energy you require to keep your house cozy for the winter.
Here are five ways to make the most of your furnace, maximizing your warmth while minimizing your fuel use.
1: Changing the Filter
Your furnace has a filter that prevents dust, grit, pet hair, and other contaminants from circulating through the heating system. Those contaminants can hinder the efficient operation of your furnace. However, if the filter is full of dust, it’s not able to do its job properly. Also, the furnace has to work harder to pull air through the clogged filter. This means more fuel will be used to achieve the same effect.
So, clean or change your filter regularly. While the furnace is being used a lot, cleaning the filter monthly will make a big difference. If you’re not sure how to go about changing the filter, check your owner’s manual, or reach out to us with any questions about furnace filter replacement in Flower Mound, TX.
2: Close Your House Up Tight
It’s probably obvious that you should keep your doors and windows closed to heat just your house, not the whole neighborhood. But there’s more you can do. Make sure doors to uninsulated places like your garage and attic are kept securely closed. If some rooms in your home aren’t frequently used, lower the heat to those spaces and close the doors. And anywhere that a door is closed, you can use a door snake to insulate any gap at the bottom. You can also get weather stripping for your windows to close up any spaces that allow a draft.
3: Try Setting the Thermostat Lower
We’re not suggesting that you spend the winter shivering in inadequate heat. But it’s possible that setting it a couple of degrees lower won’t decrease your comfort, especially if you utilize your ceiling fans. Set them at a low speed turning clockwise, which will gently push the rising warm air downward where you’ll benefit from it. And don’t forget to lower your heat when you are away from home. Many thermostats can be programmed to your regular schedule so you don’t have to adjust it manually every time you leave or return.
4: Make the Most of Sunlight
Make sure your curtains are open wide when the sun is hitting the windows. The glass will provide the benefits of a greenhouse, warming your home. Close curtains, especially if they are heavy or insulated curtains, when it’s dark.
5: Get Your Furnace Maintained
Scheduling annual maintenance makes a huge difference. Without annual maintenance, a furnace’s efficiency can decrease by 5% every year, which can translate to a major increase to your utility bills. A qualified technician can bring that efficiency back up dramatically.
Contact PRK Services, Inc. today to schedule maintenance or with any questions about your furnace’s efficiency.