If you’re like most homeowners, you don’t want to see your gas or electricity bill go up every month. An inefficient furnace uses more electricity or natural gas, which could be driving up your utility bills. At Pro Temp of Illinois, we offer these tips on how to increase the efficiency of your furnace this winter.
1. Keep Up With Annual Tuneup Services
Routine maintenance performed by our professional service technicians is one of the best ways to maintain an efficient furnace. During a tuneup visit, our technicians perform many different tasks. These tasks are related to cleaning the furnace and checking its operations. We recommend scheduling an annual furnace tuneup during the late autumn months of the year. During this visit, our technicians will:
- Remove and clean the burner
- Vacuum the blower cavity
- Vacuum the blower blades
- Clean and inspect the flame sensor
2. Change the Air Filter
A dirty air filter could decrease your furnace’s efficiency by as much as 30 percent. During the annual tuneup, the technician will clean or replace the filter. However, it is a good idea to check the filter once per month when your home needs heating. If you notice that the filter is dirty, clean it or replace it. Replacement filters can be purchased through us. You can also contact us to come out and replace the filter for you at any time.
3. Maintain Clean Air Ducts and Vents
Dirty or obstructed air ducts decrease your furnace’s efficiency. If the heated air blown by the furnace can’t get to your home’s living spaces, the furnace will cycle more. Use your vacuum’s hose to clean dust and debris off the air vent covers. You can also remove the vent covers from your walls. Reach into the air ducts with the vacuum hose in order to remove the dust around the opening. Consider professional air duct cleaning every three years. Getting the dust out also improves your home’s indoor air quality.
Contact us at Pro Temp of Illinois in La Grange today for more information about furnace efficiency.