Extreme Cold Weather Tips for Your Furnace

As another cold Michigan winter approaches, it's a good time to start thinking about ways to keep our homes warm and cosy by maximising furnace efficiency. Follow a few simple tips to keep your furnace in good working order this winter and save money on heating.

Replace Furnace Filter

The air filters in your furnace are critical for keeping dust and debris out of your unit and ensuring that it performs appropriately. For optimal performance, check your filters regularly and change them every 1-2 months. If you want to change your filters regularly, we offer one of the best furnace services in Grand Rapids, including installation, repairing, or replacement. 

Clear Blocked Vents

Snow and ice can block furnace vents in colder climates, making it difficult for the exhaust to escape. With a basic grasp of how furnace exhaust departs your home, though, you can ensure that these openings remain clear.

Clean Your Furnace Flame Sensor

The flame sensor in your furnace is critical to its safe operation. When a flame is lit, the furnace flame sensor detects it and turns the furnace off when it is not lighted, preventing dangerous gases from being discharged. Therefore, your furnace flame sensor is a vital and sensitive part of your furnace. If your furnace's flame sensor has to be replaced, the furnace may start and then stop. If this is the case, dust or debris may be visible on the furnace flame sensor's tip.

Check Your Thermostat

The use of a thermostat is one of the most often asked questions. But, of course, that typical question is, "What temperature should the heat be set at during the winter?

Many of our consumers are surprised to hear that lowering the temperature of their heater throughout the winter is frequently recommended. Consider lowering your thermostat three to five degrees lower than usual to reduce furnace exertion. For example, if you usually keep your house at 72°F, consider setting it to 68°F during cold spells.

Remember to check the battery in your thermostat. When the weather becomes colder, you don't want your climate control to quit working. Many people update the batteries in their thermostat once a year, usually before winter arrives. On the other hand, a thermostat battery has a lifespan that might range from months to years. If you see the light signalling that it's time to change the thermostat battery, do it immediately.

Prevent Furnace Short Cycling

A flame sensor prevents the gas valve from allowing gas to flow if it senses it isn't burning correctly. A furnace will not "stay lit" if this is done. A high-limit switch, also known as a "temperature sensor," detects when the air temperature within the furnace has climbed too high and shuts off the gas valve to prevent damage. A dirty filter, difficulties with the blower motor, or blocked registers can all contribute to the high temperature, basically anything that hinders air from moving through the system.

Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up

During the cold winter months, your furnace must run correctly. You want it to work correctly while also being inexpensive. The first step toward furnace efficiency is to get your unit serviced by a reputable heating and cooling company. The most excellent way to save money on winter heating is to make sure your furnace is up to standard.

Many furnace maintenance duties, such as regulating gas pressure, inspecting parts for wear, and furnace repairs, are best left to professionals. However, regular furnace tune-ups can also detect early problems to prevent significant damage, such as leaking condensate drain piping or loose parts.

Contact A & E Heating & Cooling

If you're looking for furnace contractors near you, then contact A & E Heating & Cooling today to schedule your furnace tune-up, tackle short furnace cycling, replace your non-programmable thermostat and more.