Now that colder weather has descended upon Southern California, you may started using that long forgotten heater. But are you spending more than you really need to in order to heat your home? The fact is, you may need to do some checks on your heating system. Here are 3 simple ways to help your system run better – that don’t require any specialized mechanical knowledge.
Keep Vents Open and Clear
It could seem that closing registers in unused areas of the home or placing a solid piece of furniture in front of a badly-located return air vent isn’t a big deal. You might even think you are saving money and reducing your energy usage.
However, that’s not true. Heating and duct systems are designed to run most efficiently with a full flow of air throughout the house. So keep those air registers and vents open and unblocked. It’s free, and it could potentially save you some money. You can even update an ugly return air vent with modern-looking sheet metal screening.
Replace the Air Filter
Imagine trying to breathe through an increasingly dirty air mask for months at a time. Your lungs would not be able to work efficiently, and eventually your entire body would suffer.
It’s the same with any mechanical system, including your furnace. Check your system’s manual for the recommended schedule for replacing the air filter. The usual recommendation is every 4-6 weeks. You can also consult with professionals for advice on how to maintain a healthy heating system.
New Jersey electrician, Team, suggests that during seasons of heavy use (if you live in a particularly dusty area), you may need to change the filter more often. If you have a washable permanent filter, take a few minutes every week to clean it. You can even set a recurring reminder on your phone or mark your calendar so you won’t forget.
Seal the Ducts
Before you run out and purchase a roll of all-purpose duct tape, check to see if your ducts are sealed. If they are not, then it’s likely some heat is leaking out at every joint, and that costs you money.
You have two choices for properly sealing your ducts. The first is mastic, which is a sticky, messy material – but good for sealing ducts since it is flexible and does not harden completely once applied. The second choice is foil-backed tape, which can be more expensive than mastic but cleaner to apply. Remember, never use standard cloth-backed duct tape for sealing ducts. It will quickly break down when heated, which ruins the seal and then it becomes a fire hazard.
These 3 easy ways to improve the efficiency of your furnace system will help it last longer, make your home more comfortable, and will save you money.
