Winter has arrived in full force and the snow, ice and cold temperatures are here for a while. You may not give much thought to your home’s HVAC system beyond keeping the heat flowing, but there are a few things you should know about keeping your HVAC system humming as it should.
Many homes, especially newer homes, will struggle to keep a consistent temperature. Older homes will likely not keep a consistent temperature. This means as the temperature outside drops, your HVAC system is working at full capacity. This constant running of the system to maintain a consistent temperature in your home is hard on your furnace.
Additionally, seeing the large amount of snow we currently have in Plainfield, the outside AC unit should not be ignored.
Here are six things you can do to keep your HVAC system running efficiently and safely.
1. Turn Off Programmable Thermostat
Take the programmable thermostat off of its scheduled settings, either turn off the schedule or put the temperature you set on HOLD until the extreme cold has passed.
2. Bump Up the Thermostat
When extreme cold is predicted, below zero windchills or temperatures, dial the temperature on the thermostat up about 2 to 3 degrees above what you normally have set. Keep this temperature consistent until the extreme cold has passed. It is recommended that the temperature be set at 70 degrees, this is a good temperature to keep the home warm and the furnace operating properly.
3. Keep Air Flowing
Keep the clean air flowing by swapping out the furnace filter. This will help the furnace pump that warm air even more efficiently.
4. Clear the Vents
Make sure vents in each room are not covered or blocked by furniture and the air is blowing unobstructed.
5. Get Cooking
If you are still struggling to keep warm and the 70-degree temperature is not warming your home as much as you like, bake something, or cook. Boiling water or making soup will introduce humidity into the air and will help keep warmer temperatures steady. (DO NOT turn the oven on and think this will help heat up your home, it will not work, and it is VERY dangerous.)
6. Let the Sunshine In
During the day when the sun is out open the curtains to help heat up your home. The sun’s warmth will do a bit to keep your home comfy and cozy. However, at night, make sure you close the curtains to keep that cold air out.
Still Cold? Call TR Miller Heating and Cooling
If you notice the furnace running odd cycles, running way too long, or not at all; or if there is no warm air blowing from your vents it may be time to call in a professional. Our technicians are knowledgeable and licensed so you can trust that we will be able to resolve your problems.
When you call us for service, you’ll speak with a live person who will quickly dispatch one of our certified, highly trained technicians to your home. Your technician will listen closely to your needs, provide an accurate diagnosis, and work with you to decide on the right solution.
