When to replace a furnace?

The cold weather season is here and it’s time for you to make sure your furnace is ready to keep you warm this winter.

Furnaces are not designed to last forever, but how do you know when it’s time to have it replaced? We understand that a new furnace is not cheap, so before you go shopping for a replacement, it’s important to understand the tell-tale signs that indicate your system may need an upgrade:

·        You’re paying for repair services too frequently.

·        Your heating bills are high even when you don’t change the thermostat.

·        Your furnace is making a lot of noise.

·        You’re unable to keep a consistent temperature throughout the home.

·        Your furnace is older than 15 years.

Originally posted here https://energycentre.ca/when-to-replace-a-furnace/

How to clean a furnace

One of the biggest obstacles of a properly functioning furnace is dirt and debris. A dirty furnace results in wasted fuel and significantly lowers efficiency. Preventative maintenance is crucial to ensuring that dust and debris is removed before it affects the components of your furnace. If you want to keep your heating system working in peak condition, regular cleaning is required.

A Guide to Furnace Cleaning

Cleaning your furnace is one of the most important aspects of routine maintenance. Fortunately, if you can commit to a few hours and a little elbow grease, you can help your heating system remain in good condition for many years to come. If you are not comfortable or don’t have the time to handle the task, it’s best to call in trained and certified HVAC technicians.

CLEAN THE BURNER:

Before cleaning your furnace, shut off the power source. Next, gather your tools and remove the furnace door to access the burner cover. Remove it and use a vacuum with a wand extension to reach as far back as you can. If cleaning is done properly, burner flame should be blue. If your burners are still dirty, the flames will burn yellow. If you notice any signs of soot or need to have your burners adjusted, call the professionals.

CLEAN THE BLOWER:

Carefully remove the blower and gently clean it off using a toothbrush and vacuum. Try your best not to disturb the wiring and counterweights while cleaning and make sure you dislodge and remove any dirt that is caught between each fan blade.

INSPECT AND REPLACE THE FILTER:

Your furnace filter should be replaced every 3 months to protect the rest of your heating system and replaced every month once it is in a cycle of continuous use. You will notice if your filter is clogged and needs to be replaced, by holding it up to a light. Make sure to use the same size and type of filter since an upgrade can strain the furnace.

COST OF PROFESSIONAL FURNACE CLEANING:

Prices for a furnace cleaning can cost between $60 and $80 depending on several factors including what your maintenance package includes. Fortunately, we offer the best service rates in Ottawa. Contact us directly for more information.

Quality Furnace Cleaning Services

As heating season gets underway, now is the perfect time to clean your furnace before relying on it for regular use in the winter. If you are looking for an easier and faster way to have your furnace cleaned, the experts at The Energy Centre are here to help. With nearly 25 years of industry experience, we know how to help you avoid unnecessary repairs through regular tune-ups and cleaning. Extend the life of your furnace with our convenient and affordable maintenance services today.

Originally Posted on The Energy Centre

Read here...

THE RIGHT STEPS FOR PREVENTATIVE AIR CONDITIONER MAINTENANCE

You would not drive an entire year in your vehicle without getting an oil change, so why assume your home’s air conditioner can run all year without preventative maintenance or a tune-up?

Your air conditioner, especially in the summer, could be running 24 hours per day, seven days a week. If you want to maximize efficiency, then you need to maintain it properly by:

• Changing Your Furnace Filter: One easy way to keep an air conditioner running a peak efficiency is by changing your furnace filters every few months. A dirty filter not only affects indoor air quality but can cause strain on your AC unit – which in turn means higher energy costs.

• Have an Annual Tune-Up: While there are DIY videos online, an annual tune-up by an HVAC specialist is best. Technicians come to your home and inspect the core components, including electrical wiring, coils, refrigerant lines, setting controls, fan blades, and more. They clean, check, and repair these main components so that you can use your air conditioner freely without adding unnecessary wear and tear.

Ideally, you should call a licensed, certified technician for your preventative maintenance. A professional has the tools and equipment, along with the industry expertise, to do maintenance in as little as an hour, but give you months of worry-free cooling.

Originally Posted on The Energy Centre