February in Ohio is no stranger to extreme winter weather such as snow and ice storms, sub-zero temps, and wind chills that fall to -20 or below. When these weather patterns hit, it is very important to keep yourself, your family, and your pets safe by staying indoors whenever possible and taking the proper precautions when you must leave the house. However, don’t forget to also take steps to keep your home and furnace safe from the plummeting temperatures. According to Allied Services, Inc., there are 3 things you can do to protect your home and furnace from sub-zero temps this winter.
1. Check Your Filter
An easy way to keep your furnace running efficiently throughout the winter – and especially during times of extreme cold – is to make sure your filter is clean. Filters can fill up twice as fast as normal when temps are so low. Check your filter regularly to see if it needs to be changed. You will know if it is time to change the filter if you shine a flashlight at it and the light does not shine through it.
2. Set Your Thermostat
Under normal conditions, it is wise to program your thermostat to fluctuate throughout the day depending on if you are home or not, in order to save energy. However, in times of extreme cold, you should set your thermostat to one temperature and leave it. When wind chills get down below zero, your furnace will have a difficult time keeping up and will just run continuously.
3. Check Your Vent Pipes
Bundle up and take a quick walk outside to check your vent pipes for any blockage. Snow from blowing and shoveling could be covering your exhaust and thus cause your furnace to turn off. The last thing you want in sub-zero weather is an easily avoidable furnace mishap.
Have you taken these steps and yet still feel like your furnace is not working properly? Or maybe you just have some concerns and could use some peace of mind from a professional. Don’t hesitate to call the heating and cooling experts at Allied Services, Inc. to schedule a furnace inspection and tune-up. Contact us today at (937) 269-5059 and let us help you stay warm this winter.