7 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Furnace

While the official start of winter isn't for another couple of weeks, the time to start thinking about your heating system is today. Once the temperatures begin to drop, nothing is more important than your home's furnace. Take proper care of it now so that it doesn't break down in the middle of a cold spell, when HVAC companies are at their busiest.

Use the following tips to improve energy-efficiency, prevent breakdowns, and get the most out of your HVAC system this winter.

Change your air filter.

Did you know that your furnace has an air filter which is responsible for keeping out dust and other contaminants? Most filters require cleaning or replacement every month or two, refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions for your unit.

Invest in a programmable thermostat.

Programmable thermostats cost a little bit of money up front, but they can quickly pay for themselves with the year-round energy savings they provide. There is no need for the heat to be blasting when the house is empty, so set yours to shut off during the day, but power on early enough to warm up your house by the time you get home.

Supplement with ceiling fans.

Ceiling fans can help make your home feel warmer without having to turn up the thermostat. Set your blades to rotate clockwise, this will push warm air that gathers at the ceiling back down into the room.

Schedule a professional tune-up.

You should have your heating system inspected and tuned up by a trained professional every year. The technician should clean and lubricate the various components of your system, as well as examine them for signs of future failure.

Make room for the furnace.

If the radiators or baseboard heaters in your home are covered by furniture or drapery, the heat cannot adequately spread throughout your whole house. Leave at least six inches of space on all sides of your heating equipment to maximum energy efficiency and minimize fire risk.

Improve your insulation.

If you have drafty spots in your home, your money could be going out of the window – literally. Improve the insulation in your walls, ceilings, and floors, and seal any air leaks with a caulking gun or weatherstripping.

Clean your air ducts.

The average home generates more than 40 pounds of dust each year, much of which settles in your ductwork. This restricts airflow and makes your HVAC system work harder to warm your home. Have your ducts cleaned every 3-5 years by a professional service.

If you are looking for an air duct cleaning company on Long Island? Look no further than GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration! We use only eco-friendly methods to keep your ducts clean and clear of pollutants. Call us today for a free quote at (631) 940-8100.