Winter is in full swing here in Pittsburgh so it’s safe to say that all of our furnaces are currently being put to the test. But, did you know that your furnace could work more efficiently by maximizing the airflow in your home? As a homeowner, you know that heating your home costs a decent amount of money, especially if you have a big home to heat. To get the most out of your money this frigid winter season, you’ll want to make sure to maximize the airflow in your home. When the airflow in your home increases, your furnace operates more efficiently and effectively, thus reducing your bill and prolonging the life of the furnace. So, be sure to follow these five steps to maximize your airflow this season.
Clean/replace air filter – The number one way to maximize airflow this season is to keep your furnace filter clean. The cleaner it is, the more air can flow through it. Hair, dirt, dust, and other debris get caught in the furnace filter over time. When the buildup of debris becomes too much, it significantly restricts airflow. Your furnace will not be able to reach the desired temperature of your home and will run longer and harder. Depending on the type of furnace filter you have, replace or clean your furnace filter at least once a month, especially if you have animals.
Secure windows – Airflow in your home doesn’t matter if your windows are not tightly secured. Be sure to enforce storm windows and use a caulking gun to seal any cracks around the windowsill. Otherwise, your warm air can escape your home, again causing the furnace to work harder.
Ceiling fans – During colder months you want to make sure the ceiling fan is running clockwise. Heat rises, so you don’t want all that heat going straight to the ceiling. Having the ceiling fan on a low setting moving clockwise will circulate the warm air in your home.
Doors – With central heating, it is best to leave all the doors in your home open. This will allow the heat in your home to move about freely and increase the airflow.
Vents clean and clear – You want to make sure all of your air vents are open and free from any obstructions. Move any furniture, curtains, bookshelves, or anything else that could potentially block an air vent. During the winter, dust the opening of the air vent weekly to prevent the buildup of hair and dust – this is a simple and easy way to maximize airflow in your home this season.
If you’ve followed these steps and your furnace still doesn’t seem to be heating your home properly, feel free to give our technicians a call, we’ll be glad to help.
