Natural Gas Furnace - It Doesn't Take Much To Ensure Economical Heat
A reliable, economical and convenient way to heat a home is by using a natural gas furnace rather than using a heating system that depends on oil or electricity. Additionally, a gas water heater also has the same quick response time, reliability and economy that a natural gas furnace has.
If you want to keep your natural gas furnace running at top efficiency, you must perform certain routine maintenance tasks. Doing so will keep you ahead of any potential problems and extend the working life of your furnace.
Air filters on your furnace must be replaced on a regular basis - at least every month or two, depending on the operating conditions your natural gas furnace is subject to. If a furnace filter is clogged or dirty, warm airflow is reduced. The result of this is that your furnace has to work harder to keep your home's temperature at a constant. This means your natural gas furnace is using more energy and your heating bills will rise. You might be tempted to skimp on changing air filters, but to do so will only be more expensive in the long run in either increased fuel bills or repairs.
Check your heat ducts and registers. They should be clear of anything blocking them. Toys, dust balls, small pieces of clothing, draperies or furniture can all block a register without you being aware that that has happened. This means warm air doesn't flow freely and your natural gas furnace has to work harder to maintain your home's temperature.
Check your duct work for leaks at the seams. Most HVAC contractors use duct tape to seal the duct seams when they are installing a natural gas furnace. Aluminum foil tape is available that lasts longer than traditional duct tape. If your seams are loose or becoming brittle, consider using this foil tape as a replacement. While it is more expensive, it does last longer and holds tighter than duct tape, saving you money in the long run.
Keeping your natural gas furnace in top operating condition doesn't require a lot of time or money when it's done on a regular basis. The pay off is in reliable, economic heat for your home.
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