The weather outside if frightful, but your furnace is meant to keep your home feeling delightful. Your HVAC system keeps you comfortable 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 steps to keep your home as energy-efficient this chilly winter, you're also sealing off your home from fresh air. This could cause an increase in both allergens and pollutants. Your annual furnace repair appointment will help keep your air clean and comfortable all year long. There are also things you can do between your annual 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 important things you can do between furnace repair and maintenance visits. It's typically suggested that furnace filters be changed routinely every 3 months (some longer), but it's wise to check it once a month for debris. This is especially important if you live in a home with smokers or pets. Pollen, pet dander, dust mites and numerous other kinds of debris more easily build up in grimy filters and that affects the health of those with sensitivities. A dirty filter will also decrease 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 trap all types of indoor pollutants. Keep your home as tidy as possible during this chilly season. Not only will you be all set for any surprise guests, but you'll keep the dust from disturbing your allergies or clogging up your air filter. If you don't have one already, a smart purchase is a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
Furnace Repair and Maintenance
Once-a-year 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 side effect of furnace operation. When your system is operating properly, CO is channeled out of the home through an exhaust pipe. Your yearly maintenance will pinpoint any leaks and and make sure it is operating properly.
Your home is your safe haven. We want to work with you in order to keep you as healthy and comfortable as possible. Call us at 479-308-8176 and chat 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.