If you have an energy efficient furnace, you know the winter months are when it’s going to really pay off. These innovative HVAC systems can help cut back the amount of energy or gas needed to heat your home compared to older and less efficient models. With winter months approaching here in Houston, we’ve prepared some essential steps you can take to ensure your furnace will run efficiently and effectively throughout the season.
1. Schedule a routine service visit before winter weather arrives.
You won’t want to start the season by turning on your furnace on the first cold day in Houston only to discover it’s not running properly. It’s important to have a HVAC professional inspect your furnace, as these individuals have been trained and certified to ensure your HVAC system is safe and working well. Keeping your equipment regularly maintained will not only help the product operate smoothly, but it will help improve the energy efficiency of your furnace, as well.
2. Check your heat exchanger.
Broken or improperly functioning heat exchangers mix combustion gases with your home’s air, which could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Simply inspect your furnace’s combustion chamber for cracks. If you detect strange odors coming from the heater after a couple minutes, shut it off and call a professional. Your heat exchanger is an important part of creating an energy efficient furnace. When it functions properly, the equipment doesn’t have to work as hard or use as much energy to generate the heat you desire.
3. Change your air filter.
It’s a good idea to change your filters regularly, and just before winter hits is a great time. Clean filters may help improve your furnace’s air flow and could lead to better energy efficiency, as well. Pleated, HEPA and electrostatic filters can also help enhance the furnace’s energy efficiency, so consider upgrading if you’re currently using a flat filter. We recommend checking your filter at the end of each month to see whether it needs to be changed.
Try these steps to create a more energy efficient home this winter. Or, if you’re in need of a repair, Marcos AC & Heating offers a variety of energy efficient furnaces. We’re happy to walk you through the latest and greatest HVAC systems available in Houston.