The weather outside if frightful, but your furnace was made to keep your home feeling delightful. Your HVAC system keeps you snug 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 suggestions on how to keep your home as energy-efficient this chilly winter, you're also sealing off your home from fresh air. This could cause a rise in both allergens and pollutants. Your annual furnace repair appointment will help keep your air clean and comfortable all year long. There are also steps we recommend you take 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 usually 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 particularly important if you live in a home with smokers or pets. Pollen, pet dander, dust mites and various other debris more easily build up in unclean 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 hold onto all types of indoor pollutants. Keep your home as tidy as possible during this chilly season. Not only will you be ready for any unexpected guests, but you'll keep the dust from disrupting your allergies or mucking up your air filter. If you don't have one already, a good investment is a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
Furnace Repair and Maintenance
Annual furnace repair and maintenance is not just for the life of your furnace, but also for your health. If you own a gas furnace, your home is heated by natural gas or propane. Carbon Monoxide is a natural byproduct of furnace operation. When your system is operating well, 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 castle. We want to work along side you to keep you as healthy and comfortable as possible. Call us at 815-410-1128 and talk to one of our furnace repair technicians if you have any questions about keeping your furnace and air quality in tip-top shape this season.