As winter's icy grip tightens around Pittsburg, Kansas, and the surrounding areas of Webb City, Joplin, and Carthage, Missouri, homeowners face the challenge of keeping their homes warm and cozy. At Harris Heating and Air, we understand the importance of a well-functioning furnace during these frigid months. Here are some crucial furnace suggestions to help you weather the extreme cold:
- Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
- Maintain Proper Airflow
- Seal Air Leaks
- Schedule Professional Maintenance
- Utilize Ceiling Fans
- Monitor Carbon Monoxide Levels
- Consider Humidity Levels
- Prepare for Power Outages
Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
When temperatures plummet, it's tempting to crank up the heat. However, this can strain your furnace and lead to higher energy bills. Instead, set your thermostat to a consistent, moderate temperature. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68°F while awake and 65°F while asleep or away from home. That approach can save you up to 10% annually on heating bills, a significant financial burden during the winter months.
Maintain Proper Airflow
Proper airflow is critical for your furnace's efficiency and longevity. To ensure this, check and replace your furnace filters regularly—at least once every three months or more frequently during heavy use periods. Clean air filters improve air quality and keep your furnace operating efficiently.
Seal Air Leaks
Cold air infiltration can force your furnace to work overtime. Inspect your home for air leaks, particularly around windows and doors. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency suggests sealing air leaks and insulation air gaps can save you up to 15% on heating costs. Use weatherstripping, caulk, or foam sealant to close these gaps and keep the warm air inside where it belongs.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
Regular HVAC professional maintenance is one of the most effective furnace suggestions for homeowners. The National Fire Protection Association advises annual inspections by a qualified professional. These check-ups can identify possible issues before they become significant problems, ensuring your furnace operates safely and efficiently when needed. Knowing your furnace is in the hands of an HVAC professional gives you peace of mind.
Utilize Ceiling Fans
It might seem counterintuitive, but ceiling fans will help redistribute warm air more effectively throughout your home. Set your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise so that updrafts move warm air from the ceiling into the living space. That should allow you to lower your thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.
Monitor Carbon Monoxide Levels
Safety should always be a top priority when operating furnaces. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that faulty furnaces can release carbon monoxide, a deadly colorless, odorless gas, into a home. Installing carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and routinely testing each unit is a proactive measure that will provide you with a sense of security, knowing your family is well-protected from this odorless gas.
Consider Humidity Levels
Dry winter air can make a home feel colder than it is. The Environmental Protection Agency suggests maintaining indoor relative humidity between 30% and 50%. A humidifier can also make your home feel warmer at lower temperatures, allowing you to lower your thermostat slightly without sacrificing comfort.
Prepare for Power Outages
Power outages are always a possibility in extreme weather. If your furnace loses power, have a backup plan, such as a battery-powered space heater or a generator, to keep at least one room warm. When using alternative heating sources, be sure to follow manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines.
Following these furnace suggestions can help you and your family remain warm and cozy during the coldest Midwest winters. Remember, your furnace is a complex system, and while these tips can help maintain its efficiency, professional care is often necessary for optimal performance and safety.
At Harris Heating and Air, we're committed to keeping our neighbors in Pittsburg, Webb City, Joplin, and Carthage comfortable year-round. Don't wait until the coldest day of the year to address furnace issues—contact us today for expert maintenance and service to keep your home cozy all winter.