10.13.2009

Furnace Tune Ups -- Not Just a Bunch of Hot Air

When we're down in the basement, we usually walk past the furnace without giving it a second thought -- until the weather changes and it’s time to turn it on! Having your furnace checked out by a licensed technician will ensure confidence when the time comes to fire it up.

The last thing you want is for your heat to fail on the coldest night of the year when service calls cost a fortune so treat your furnace like your car and have it maintained on a regular basis. An annual inspection which covers the motor, fan, burner, heat exchanger and thermostat will help you avoid costly repairs.

Give your furnace a quick visual inspection from time to time and make sure you clean or replace your furnace filters regularly as dirty air filters block air flow which causes the system to work overtime. Also, keep the area around the furnace clear of obstructions and never store any kind of flammable material nearby.

An efficiently running furnace will reduce heating costs but there are other easy ways to save money. Seal up air leaks with caulk or weather strips and always open your drapes on sunny days and close them at night to keep the heat in. The easiest way to save though is to turn down the thermostat and add an extra layer of clothing!

Regular maintenance will increase efficiency, reduce energy use and prevent general wear and tear. Having your furnace serviced so it works at its optimum performance level is more of an investment than an expense as it'll keep your hard earned cash where it belongs -- in your wallet!

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