At G & R Heating and Air in St. Charles, we’re always working to keep up on the latest HVAC trends because we want to have the answers to all of our customers’ questions. If there’s something we don’t know or an issue that’s confounding us, we’ll do whatever we can to come up with a safe and affordable solution. During the winter months, we’re asked several furnace-related questions, and we thought we’d share some of the most common here.
Why Does the Ductwork Pop When the Furnace Turns On?
Many homeowners have asked this question, and the answer can be multifaceted. The contraction and expansion of the ducts can be caused by temperature change as the warm air begins to flow through it, but it could also be because of a duct system that’s too small to handle the airflow being produced by the furnace. Our HVAC experts can examine and repair your ducts to make sure they can handle the heating demands of your home.
How Can I Increase My Heating System’s Efficiency?
Apart from regular furnace maintenance, there are some things you can do to keep your heating system running smoothly for many years. Changing the filters on a regular basis will ensure that there is enough air flowing through the system, and that the air quality inside your home isn’t compromised. Installing shades and curtains that help retain heat inside your home will require your furnace to run less frequently, and updating your thermostat can sometimes mean the difference between an affordable heating season and a costly one.
Which Furnace Parts Should I Be the Most Worried About?
While your furnace may be fairly new, you may still be worried about certain parts malfunctioning in the near future. Components such as surface ignitors and blower motors should last between five to eight years, and with proper maintenance, even longer. Heat exchangers can last the life of the furnace (between 15 to 20 years) and again, with regular upkeep, you can extend the lifespan by a few years. By keeping everything clean and replacing faulty parts in a timely manner will help you furnace work properly for a long time, and you’ll also have to take into account how much you use your heating system during the winter.
How Often Should I Have My Furnace Inspected?
The frequency with which you have your furnace inspected is entirely up to you, but it’s best to have it looked at at least twice a year. We recommend having it inspected before you turn it on for the winter and after you shut it off in the spring, and that provides ample opportunity to check for faulty parts. If you want to replace your old furnace, it’s best to do that in the spring or summer when you don’t need the heat.
If you’re looking for heating repair in the St. Charles area, contact G & R today. We have experience with types of furnace models and heating systems, and can provide the necessary repairs when you need them most.