Understanding Filter Concerns

When it's cold outside, you want your home to be a nice warm cocoon. When your furnace is operating properly and your home is insulated well, you'll be comfortable even during fierce winter weather. However, when your furnace isn't heating like it's supposed to, you can be miserable even when it isn't all that cold out. Different things can cause your furnace to run but not heat your home well. Here's a look at some of them.

Problems With The Filter

The filter is an important part of your furnace that's under your control. You might not be able to do any other furnace repairs, but you can maintain the filter. When your furnace isn't working well, check the filter first. If it's missing, then your furnace could be clogged with dust and need a service call to get it back in shape. You should never run your furnace with a missing or clogged filter. If the filter looks clogged, replace it. Also, check that the filter is installed correctly. It has arrows on it that show you how to position it correctly, and if you get it backward, airflow is restricted, and this could possibly lead to problems with the way your furnace functions.

Thermostat Malfunction

Your furnace may be fine, but the thermostat could be acting up. Replace the battery to see if that helps. Also, note the display on a digital thermostat to see if the time and other readings are correct. If they're not, then that could indicate the thermostat needs to be reset, repaired, or replaced. Don't forget to check that the thermostat is on the heat setting.

Worn Or Dirty Furnace Parts

When the weather is dangerously cold, it's best to call a professional right away when your furnace is not heating your home. Worn-out parts or a clogged furnace due to dust and grime could be to blame. Sometimes, a furnace will turn and off frequently and never run long enough to keep your home warm. This happens when the furnace shuts down for safety reasons because it is overheating. If you notice this happening with your furnace, it's a clear sign you need repairs. Other times, the need for repairs aren't as obvious, but you don't need to know a lot about furnaces to know when yours isn't working like it's supposed to.

By having heating repairs done in a timely manner, you can possibly prevent worse damage and keep a safety hazard from developing in your home.