Iowans are breaking out their favorite football team’s apparel, sweaters and pumpkin-flavored treats. That can only mean one thing. Fall is here.
Sometimes the beautiful weather and changing leaves make it difficult to remember winter is just around corner. But autumn is the best time to get your furnace system in shape for freezing temperatures — before they arrive. Follow the advice below to ensure your home will be warm and cozy all winterlong.
Let us do the hard work for you
Want to be sure your furnace is ready for winter? Sign up for an annual maintenance program. These plans are designed to keep your systems working at peak efficiency all year long.
If you participate in one of our annual maintenance programs, a Bell Brothers professional will inspect your heating and cooling system every fall and identify any potential issues that could impact its performance in the coming winter months. Annual maintenance can extend the life of your equipment, save you time and money, and deliver up to 40 percent savings in energy efficiency.
Testing, testing. 1, 2, 3.
It’s hard to tell if your furnace is having issues unless you turn it on. And, if you wait until that 20-degree day in November, you might be left out in the cold. On a cool morning this fall, switch your thermostat over to the heat setting and test how your furnace is performing. If you hear any strange sounds, notice the vents aren’t releasing warm air or the temperature never reaches what you selected on the thermostat, it’s time to call in a professional to investigate. A simple 10-minute test now could save you from a freezing house this winter.
Breathe easy.
It’s easy to neglect the vents in our homes, but they are vitally important to your comfort level. This fall, check all the vents around your house to ensure they are free of obstructions. Even simple things like furniture and bedding can block vents and prevent them from properly circulating warm air throughout your house. When vents are blocked, your furnace has to work harder than necessary to heat your home, resulting in higher energy bills.
Keep cold air out and hot air in.
As outdoor temperatures begin to fall, pay attention to any drafts or cold air leaks you notice near your windows and doors. Not only will these gaps cause higher energy bills, but they make your furnace work harder than it would normally. This can cause unnecessary wear and tear on your system and can even shorten its lifespan. If you do identify any air leaks, make sure to seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.
