A warm air heating system is a popular heating and air conditioning option for most homes. They heat the air by using oil, electricity, or natural gas in a furnace. The air is then distributed throughout the home out of ductwork that spreads out across the floor and ceilings and is then blown out in vents, registers, and wall or ceiling supplies to control the temperature of a particular area. The cycle is pretty straightforward but there are a few nuances which could help you understand issues that can arise from this particular system.
Forced Air Systems and “Gravity” Hot Air Systems
In many older furnace models, gravity has always played an important role in heat distribution. The concept is fairly simple: heated air rises while cool air sinks. The idea behind “gravity” systems is that the natural rise and fall of air pretty much makes up the mechanism of its heat distribution.
In more modern furnaces, however, you can expect the warm air supply to be powered by a pump that “forces” air through the ductwork and distributes heat evenly throughout the household.
Furnaces and Boilers
One common misconception in heating and air conditioning is the idea that furnaces and boilers are interchangeable, however, they are not. Repair technicians will prepare differently to address issues in a boiler compared to a furnace and it will help immensely to know which is which. If you are unsure, your service professional can help you identify it correctly.
Warm Air Heating Furnaces
Heating and air conditioning systems that make use of warm air heating furnaces follow a fairly straightforward cycle that starts with your thermostat. An adjustment to the thermostat will communicate to the furnace how much warm air is needed. At this point, the heat exchanger warms up the air, which in turn is distributed by a blower throughout your home’s ductwork, until the adjustment from the thermostat is satisfied.
Best Practices to Take Care of your Warm Air Heating Systems
It is important to take care of your warm air heating system to ensure its longevity. Some best practices include:
Schedule an annual tune-up:
Just like your car, your warm air heating system needs an annual tune-up to keep it running properly. This tune-up should be performed by a qualified technician and includes a thorough inspection of the system, as well as any necessary repairs or replacements.
Change the filter regularly
Your system’s filter should be changed every few months to ensure optimal performance. A dirty filter can lead to decreased efficiency and increased wear and tear on your system.
Keep the area around the unit clear:
It is important to keep the area around your warm air heating system clear of debris and obstructions. This will ensure proper airflow and help prevent the system from overworking itself.
Check for leaks
Periodically check your system for leaks, both in the ductwork and around the unit itself. Leaks can decrease efficiency and cause your system to work harder than necessary, leading to increased wear and tear.
Keep an eye on the thermostat
Make sure the thermostat is set to the correct temperature so that your system doesn’t have to work harder than necessary. An energy-efficient setting is typically around 68 degrees Fahrenheit during daytime hours and 55 degrees at night.
By following these best practices, you can help extend the life of your warm air heating system and keep it running efficiently for years to come.
Tips for Hiring Warm Air Heating System Service Teams
You must know how to hire the best and most efficient warm air heating system service teams. The tips below will help you choose the right one:
- Make sure that the team has a valid license. This will ensure that they are qualified to work on your system.
- Choose a team that has insurance. This will protect you in case of any damages that may occur during the servicing.
- Ask for referrals from friends or family. This way, you can be sure that you are hiring a reputable team.
- Do your research online. Read reviews about different service teams before making your decision.
- Get quotes from multiple teams before deciding on which one to hire. This will help you compare prices and find the most affordable option.
By following these tips, you can be sure that you are hiring the best possible team to service your warm air heating systems.
Signs that Your Furnaces Needs a Repair or Checkup
Your furnace is an essential part of your home, and it’s important to keep it in good working condition. Here are a few signs that your furnace may need a repair or checkup:
- Your furnace is making strange noises. If your furnace is making loud banging, creaking, or humming noises, it may be time for a tune-up.
- Your furnace isn’t heating evenly. If you notice that some rooms in your home are warmer than others, it could be a sign that your furnace needs to be serviced.
- Your energy bills have gone up. If you’ve noticed a spike in your energy bills, it could be due to an issue with your furnace.
- You’ve noticed dust or pollen around your furnace. If you notice an accumulation of dust or pollen around your furnace, it could be a sign that the filter needs to be replaced.
- Your furnace is more than 15 years old. If your furnace is more than 15 years old, it may be time for a replacement. However, this is not always the case, so it’s important to have your furnace checked by a professional to determine if it needs to be replaced or not.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to call a professional furnace repair company to have your furnace serviced. Ignoring these signs could lead to more serious problems down the road.
Effective Ways to Take Care of Your Furnaces
Your furnace is one of the most important pieces of equipment in your home, and it’s important to keep it running smoothly. Here are a few tips to help you take care of your furnace:
- Regularly check the air filter and replace it when necessary. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your furnace to work harder than necessary.
- Keep the area around your furnace clean and free of debris. This will help ensure that there is adequate airflow around the unit.
- Inspect the flue pipe regularly to make sure it is clear of obstructions. A blocked flue pipe can cause deadly carbon monoxide to build up inside your home.
- Schedule annual maintenance for your furnace. This will help keep it running efficiently and prevent small problems from becoming big ones.
Taking care of your furnace is important for keeping your home comfortable and safe. By following these tips, you can be sure that your furnace will continue to work properly for years to come.
Give Your Warm Air Heating Systems and Furnaces the Best Service
For more than 15 years, Palo Alto Plumbing has provided topnotch air conditioning service in the Bay Area and nearby counties. Call us today at (650) 405-3052 and give your furnace the best that it deserves.
