The weather outside if frightful, but your furnace should be keeping your home feeling delightful. Your HVAC system keeps you comfortable and warm during the cold winter months, but if your system is in need of repair it could be making you unhealthy. As you've taken all the steps to keep your home as energy-efficient this chilly season, you're also sealing off your home from fresh air. This could cause an increase in both allergens and pollutants. Your annual furnace repair appointment will help keep your air clean and comfortable throughout the year. There are also things you can do 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 the most critical thing you can do between furnace repair and maintenance visits. It's highly recommended that furnace filters be changed at minimum every 3 months (some longer), but it's wise to check it monthly 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 grimy 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 not usually possible to open windows and let in fresh air during the winter months and your carpets and furniture will trap all types of indoor pollutants. Keep your home as well-kept as possible during this chilly season. Not only will you be ready for any surprise guests, but you'll keep the dust from upsetting your allergies or mucking up your air filter. If you don't have one already, a smart purchase is a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
Furnace Repair and Maintenance
Once-a-year furnace repair and maintenance is not only important for the life of your furnace, but also for your health. If you have a gas furnace, your home is heated by natural gas or propane. Carbon Monoxide is a natural side effect of furnace operation. When your system is operating properly, CO is channeled out of the home through an exhaust pipe. Your yearly maintenance will find any leaks and and make sure it is operating properly.
Your home is your safe haven. We want to work with you in order to keep you as healthy and comfortable as possible. Call us at 717-220-4502 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.