Protect Your Furnace So You Don’t Freeze in Braidwood, IL

If you’re like most homeowners, your central HVAC system in Braidwood, IL, includes a furnace to heat your house. Despite the heavy-duty nature of furnaces, yours could fail at any time if you neglect regular maintenance. Rather than running the risk of waking up cold this winter, it’s a good idea to follow these furnace protection tips.

1. Never Neglect Your Filters

Overlooking filters, if not forgetting them entirely, is an all-too-common mistake. Many homeowners don’t change them more than once a year.

This is an easy way to end up with furnace problems. Change your furnace filters monthly. If you use washable filters, clean them monthly.

2. Use This Strategy to Stay Comfy Without Wasting Energy

Utility bills always seem to be higher in winter. With less sunlight and lower temperatures in winter, you’re certain to spend more time indoors and use your home’s lights more.

One strategy for reducing energy consumption during winter is lowering your thermostat setting at night. According to Energy.gov, turning your thermostat back 10° to 15° for eight hours while you sleep can save you about 10% a year on your utility bills.

If you’re worried about being cold in the morning, get a smart thermostat or a low-tech programmable thermostat. You can program these thermostats to bump your home’s temperature up before your alarm clock buzzes.

3. When’s the Last Time You Checked Your Furnace Exhaust?

Furnace exhausts often take the form of two relatively short, curved pipes mounted on the side of your house. These exhausts are particularly prone to clogs. Every day or so, especially if it’s been snowing, check your exhaust vents. Remove all ice, snow or other obstructions.

Give Popejoy Inc. a ring to ask our trusted technicians questions about your home’s heating repair needs. We offer HVAC maintenance and installation services. On top of commercial HVAC work, we take on plumbing, electrical, sheet metal, geothermal heating and duct cleaning jobs, too.

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