Category: Heating

Don’t Get Burned: DIY Furnace Repair Risks Explained

Mar 23, 2023

Don’t Get Burned: DIY Furnace Repair Risks Explained

  • Heating
Don't Get Burned The Dangers of DIY Furnace Repair - Northshore Home Energy

If you’re like many homeowners, you might be tempted to try your hand at furnace repair to save money. However, DIY furnace repair can be dangerous and costly. In this blog post, we’ll explore the risks of DIY furnace repair, as well as the importance of proper furnace maintenance and knowing when to call a professional.

The Risks of DIY Furnace Repair

There are several risks associated with DIY furnace repair. These risks include fire hazards, electrical hazards, and the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Fire Risks

One of the biggest risks of DIY furnace repair is the risk of fire. Furnaces generate a lot of heat, and any mistake during a repair can result in a fire. This can be especially dangerous if your furnace is in a small, confined space like a closet or utility room.

Electrical Risks

Another risk is electrical hazards. Furnaces use electricity to power various components, and mishandling these components can result in electrical shock or even electrocution.

Poisoning Risks

Furnaces can also produce carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can be deadly if inhaled in large quantities. Without the proper training and equipment, it can be difficult to detect carbon monoxide leaks and fix them properly.

Financial Risks

Finally, there are financial risks associated as well. If a repair is done improperly, it can cause even more damage to your furnace, resulting in costly repairs or even the need for a full furnace replacement.

Who to Call To Repair Your Furnace

Given the risks associated with DIY furnace repair, it’s important to know when to call a professional. If you’re experiencing any issues with your furnace, such as strange noises, lack of heat, or frequent cycling, it’s best to call a professional furnace repair technician at North Shore Home Energy.

Proper Furnace Maintenance

To avoid the need for frequent furnace repairs, it’s important to properly maintain your furnace. This includes changing your furnace filter regularly, keeping your furnace clean, and scheduling regular maintenance appointments with a professional technician. Proper maintenance can help extend the life of your furnace and prevent costly repairs.

Other Risks

Outside of the physical risks associated with DIY furnace repair, there are warranty and quality risks as well. Click here to learn more.

In conclusion, DIY furnace repair can be dangerous and costly. With the risk of fire, electrical hazards, carbon monoxide poisoning, and financial risks, it’s important to know when to call a professional furnace repair technician. By properly maintaining your furnace and scheduling regular maintenance appointments, you can help prevent the need for repairs and keep your furnace running efficiently and safely. Don’t get burned – leave furnace repair to North Shore Home Energy! Give us a call today and check out our Google reviews! 

By nshec

DIY Furnace Repair: Why You Shouldn’t Attempt It

Mar 09, 2023

DIY Furnace Repair: Why You Shouldn’t Attempt It

  • Heating
professional furnace repair done by North Shore Home Energy

As the temperature starts to drop, your furnace becomes an essential component of your home. However, with regular use, your furnace can break down, leading to a cold and uncomfortable home. If you encounter any problems with your furnace, you may be tempted to attempt a DIY furnace repair. While it may seem like a cost-effective solution, it can cause more harm than good. Here’s why you should always hire a professional for furnace repair instead of attempting to fix it yourself.

Why DIY Furnace Repair is a Bad Idea

Generally, attempting to repair a furnace yourself is a bad idea due to a number of reasons, including:

  • Safety
  • Cost
  • Efficiency
  • Warranty

Safety Concerns

Furnaces are complex machines that require a certain level of expertise to repair. Attempting to fix your furnace without the necessary skills and knowledge can pose a significant risk to your safety. A professional furnace repair technician will have undergone extensive training to handle these appliances safely. They will be equipped with the appropriate tools and protective gear to avoid any accidents.

Click here to learn more about the physical risks of DIY furnace repair.

Cost-Effective Solutions

One of the main reasons people attempt DIY furnace repairs is to save money. However, in most cases, the opposite is true. Fixing a furnace requires specialized equipment and parts that are often costly. A professional furnace repair technician can diagnose the issue quickly and efficiently and have the necessary parts to fix it. Attempting to repair your furnace on your own can cause more damage, leading to additional costs in the long run.

Efficiency

Your furnace is responsible for heating your entire home. When it malfunctions, it can lead to discomfort, especially during the colder months. Attempting to fix it yourself can cause more damage, leading to reduced efficiency and an increased energy bill. A professional furnace repair technician will ensure that your furnace is working at optimal efficiency, saving you money on energy costs.

Warranty

Most furnaces come with a manufacturer’s warranty that covers any defects or damages. Attempting a DIY furnace repair can void this warranty, leading to additional costs if anything goes wrong. A professional furnace repair technician will ensure that any repairs are made according to the manufacturer’s specifications, keeping your warranty intact.

Don’t Attempt Do-It-Yourself Furnace Repairs

While attempting a DIY furnace repair may seem like a cost-effective solution, it can cause more harm than good. With safety concerns, cost-effective solutions, efficiency, and warranty implications, it’s always best to hire a professional furnace repair technician. At the first sign of trouble, call a professional to avoid any further damage or safety concerns. Don’t risk fixing your furnace yourself, always hire a professional. Call North Shore Home Energy for all your furnace repair needs, and don’t forget to check out our Google reviews!

By nshec

Which HVAC Systems Qualify For Mass Save Rebates?

Feb 27, 2023

Which HVAC Systems Qualify For Mass Save Rebates?

  • Heating
Qualifying heat pump for Mass Save being installed by North Shore Home Energy

Mass Save is a Massachusetts-based energy savings program that provides incentives and rebates to homeowners and businesses who invest in energy-efficient upgrades. One of the most cost-effective ways to reduce energy usage and save money is by upgrading your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. In this article, we’ll discuss which HVAC systems qualify for Mass Save rebates and the types of rebates available.

Mini Splits that Qualify for Mass Save Rebates

Mini split systems are an increasingly popular choice for home heating and cooling solutions. They are easy to install, relatively small in size, require minimal ductwork, and offer great efficiency compared to other systems. Mini-splits also come with both heating and cooling capabilities, making them a perfect all-in-one solution for any home. 

Mass Save offers up to $10,000 in rebates when you install a qualifying mini-split system. To qualify, the system must be at least 15.2 SEER or higher and meet certain other criteria.

Heat Pumps that Qualify for Mass Save Rebates

Heat pumps are another popular option for home heating and cooling systems. They are incredibly efficient, as they can transfer heat from one place to another instead of generating it themselves. Heat pumps can work as a standalone system or in conjunction with other HVAC equipment, such as air conditioners or furnaces.

If you install a qualifying heat pump system, Mass Save offers up to $10,000 in rebates for air-source heat pumps and up to 15,000 for ground-source heat pumps.

Furnaces that Qualify for Mass Save Rebates

Furnaces have been the go-to choice for home heating for decades. Although they are not as efficient as newer systems such as mini splits or heat pumps, they are still a viable option and often the most cost-effective choice. 

Like the above two options, you can save up to $1,000 in rebates when you install a qualifying furnace. The system must be rated at least 95% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) to qualify for the Mass Save rebate.

Room Air Conditioners that Qualify for Mass Save Rebates

Window-mounted room air conditioners are the traditional go-to choice for home cooling solutions. They are relatively simple to install and can be relatively efficient compared to other cooling options. 

Mass Save offers a $40 rebate when you install a qualifying ENERGY STAR certified room air conditioner. If you’re looking at heat pumps or mini splits for air conditioning, refer to the appropriate sections above.

Boilers that Qualify for Mass Save Rebates

Boilers are often used instead of a furnace to provide heat. They are known for their long life expectancy and their efficiency.

If you are considering installing a boiler, remember that the system must be rated at least 95% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) to qualify for the Mass Save. Mass Save can offer up to $1,200 in rebates.

Mass Save and North Shore Home Energy

There are a variety of rebates for energy-saving upgrades. The type of system you choose will depend on your budget, lifestyle, and needs. When selecting a system, make sure to look into the various rebate programs available through Mass Save. This can help you save money and ensure you get the most efficient system for your home.

North Shore Home Energy is proud to be a qualified Mass Save installer and can help you through the various stages of the rebate process. Contact North Shore Home Energy today to install your qualifying Mass Save appliances!

By nshec

Dangers of Electric Space Heaters

Jan 27, 2023

Dangers of Electric Space Heaters

  • Heating
dangerous electric space heater in use

Electric space heaters can be a convenient way to heat a small area, but they also come with a number of dangers if not used properly. In this blog post, we’ll go over the appropriate uses of space heaters, the dangerous uses of space heaters, and how energy-efficient space heaters are compared to furnaces. We’ll conclude by discussing why space heaters should be avoided in the long term.

Appropriate Uses of Space Heaters

When used correctly, electric space heaters can be a great way to quickly heat a small area, such as a bedroom or home office. They’re also useful for providing extra warmth in a drafty room, or as a backup heat source in case of a power outage. However, it’s important to only use space heaters in well-ventilated areas and to never leave them unattended.

Dangers of Electric Space Heaters

Unfortunately, many people use space heaters in ways that can be dangerous. For example, some people place space heaters too close to flammable materials, such as curtains or furniture. Others use space heaters in damp areas, such as bathrooms, which can lead to electrocution. Additionally, many people leave space heaters on for too long, which can lead to fires.

Energy Efficiency Compared to Furnaces

When compared to furnaces, electric space heaters are not as energy efficient. Furnaces heat the entire house, while space heaters only heat the area they’re placed in. Additionally, space heaters often use more energy than they need to, as they’re often left on for longer periods of time than necessary.

The Dangers of Electric Space Heaters Aren’t Worth It

While electric space heaters can be a convenient way to heat a small area, they come with a number of dangers if not used properly. Additionally, they are not as energy efficient as furnaces. For these reasons, it’s best to avoid using space heaters in the long term and instead invest in a more efficient heating system for your home.

If you have considered using a space heater to heat your home, think again. If your heating system needs maintenance, repair, or replacing, we would be happy to help. Call North Shore Home Energy for all your heating system needs, and don’t forget to check out our Google reviews!

By nshec

Furnace Replacement Process: Everything You Need To Know

Jan 16, 2023

Furnace Replacement Process: Everything You Need To Know

  • Heating
HVAC technician replacing a furnace

Furnace Replacement Process: Everything You Need To Know

If you’re in the market for a new furnace, you need to know what to expect during the furnace replacement process. From selecting the right size and type of furnace to having it installed, each step of the process is important.

Here are a few tips on what to expect when replacing your furnace.

Furnace Services
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HVAC technician replacing a furnace

Do You Need a Replacement Furnace?

Before jumping into the furnace replacement process, you should be sure that you actually need one. An HVAC technician on North Shore Home Energy’s team can help diagnose any problems with your current system and repair them if necessary. If the issue is severe enough, however, a replacement may be the best option for maintaining comfort in your home. Sometimes, even if the issue is repairable, it may be more cost-effective to replace the unit, but it’s important to look at your options before making the final decision.

Choosing the Right Type and Size Furnace

Once you’ve decided that replacing the furnace is the way to go, there are a few things you need to get in order. The first step in the furnace replacement process is selecting one that fits your home’s needs. Not every furnace will work for every home, so you need to be confident in the one you pick!

To do this, you’ll need to consider several factors, such as:

  • Size of your home
  • Energy efficiency
  • Fuel type
  • Features
  • Price

A professional HVAC technician can help you determine which type and size of furnace will best suit your needs. This step is extremely important and shouldn’t be rushed.

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The Furnace Replacement Process

Once you’ve chosen a new furnace, it’s time for installation. The technician will go through the following steps:

  1. Disconnecting any gas lines or other connections from your old furnace,
  2. Remove it from the space where it’s located.
  3. Install your new furnace
  4. Make any necessary connections or adjustments before testing it out to ensure that it works properly.

Steps to Furnace Maintenance

Once your new furnace is installed, it’s important that you keep up with regular maintenance in order to ensure its longevity and performance over time.

This includes things such as:

  1. Changing air filters regularly (at least once every three months),
  2. Scheduling regular  tune-ups with an HVAC technician
  3. Monitoring energy bills for any sudden spikes or drops in usage, which could indicate an issue with the system itself.

Address any issues with a technician as soon as possible in order to prevent any further damage or costly repairs. 

Furnace Repair and Installation in Massachusetts & New Hampshire

The furnace replacement process can seem intimidating, but if you take the time to research properly and hire an experienced HVAC technician like North Shore Home Energy for installation, it doesn’t have to be! Knowing what to expect before beginning the process will help make sure that everything goes as smoothly as possible when replacing your old furnace with a new one. With these tips in mind, you should be well on your way toward finding the perfect furnace replacement for your home! Call North Shore Home Energy for all your furnace-related needs, and don’t forget to check out our reviews!

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By nshec

Carbon Monoxide: Why You Should Have Your Furnace Inspected

Dec 13, 2022

Carbon Monoxide: Why You Should Have Your Furnace Inspected

  • Heating
carbon-monoxide-detector-smoke-detector-furnace-maintenance

While furnaces can be a convenient and efficient way to heat your home, they can also be hazardous if not properly maintained or used. One of the main hazards associated with furnaces is the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced when fuels such as natural gas, propane, or oil are burned. If a furnace is not properly vented or maintained, carbon monoxide can build up in your home and cause serious health problems – even death. The risk of CO poisoning is the number one reason why you should have your furnace regularly inspected and maintained by North Shore Home Energy.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms

Carbon monoxide poisoning can be difficult to detect because the symptoms are often similar to other common illnesses, such as the flu. Some common symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. More serious symptoms may include shortness of breath, blurred vision, and loss of consciousness. If you think you or members of your household may have been exposed to CO, it is important to get fresh air and seek medical attention immediately.

DIY Furnace Maintenance Tips

While it is important to have your furnace regularly inspected and maintained by qualified technicians here at North Shore Home Energy, there are some things you can do to inspect your furnace yourself. Here are a few steps you can take to inspect your furnace:

  • Check for any visible signs of damage, such as rust, cracks, or holes in the furnace or its venting system.
  • Ensure the furnace and its venting system are properly installed and securely attached to the building structure.
  • Check the furnace’s flame sensor, which is a small metal rod that helps control the flame. If the sensor is dirty or damaged, it may cause the furnace to shut off or not operate properly.
  • Additionally, you should install a carbon monoxide detector in your home to alert you to its presence.

It is important to note that inspecting your furnace yourself can be dangerous if you are not familiar with the components and operation of the furnace. If you are unsure about how to safely inspect your furnace to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, it is best to contact North Shore Home Energy to do it for you. Be sure to check out our reviews!

By nshec

Why A Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Makes Sense For Your Home

Nov 21, 2022

Why A Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Makes Sense For Your Home

  • Heating
ductless mini split heat pump installed above doorway

If you have an older home, it may not have the ducts necessary for central heating. This can be a problem if you consider updating your heating to a more modern furnace and duct system. However, you don’t need to worry about ducts with a ductless mini-split heat pump. Here’s why a ductless mini-split heat pump makes sense for your home.

Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Benefits

No ducts required

As mentioned before, the lack of central ductwork is no problem for a ductless mini-split heat pump. This means they are great options for older homes with non-ducted heat systems such as radiators, wood stoves, and others.

The fact that they are ductless also means they are great for adding heat to rooms where ductwork isn’t possible. This may be a small room, or for additions where it doesn’t make sense to try and extend the ductwork, such as a garage.

Flexibility

One of the luxuries of ductless mini-split heat pumps is that you can have up to four zones per outdoor unit. Typically, an indoor unit can be as far away as 50 feet from the outdoor unit. Indoor zones are also independently controlled. This means you can be more intentional about the temperature in individual rooms, saving you money.

These systems can also be tied into a room’s design much easier than other add-on systems. Because of their size, they are able to be installed on walls or even hidden within the wall or ceiling in some applications. This means you don’t have to worry about it disrupting your room’s design. 

Ease of installation

Conduit with the electrical framework, necessary tubing, and condensate drain connects the outdoor and indoor units. This conduit usually only needs a three-inch hole to pass by so installing one of these systems into your home is much less invasive than central ductwork.

Energy savings

The lack of ductwork works to your benefit again. Without it, you save the 30% energy loss you otherwise would with central ductwork. Along with Mass Save rebate incentives of up to $10,000, it just makes sense to replace your heating system with a ductless mini-split heat pump.

If you’re interested in one of these systems, please call North Shore Home Energy today, and be sure to check out our awesome reviews!

By nshec

A Comprehensive Guide to Duct Cleaning

May 01, 2022

A Comprehensive Guide to Duct Cleaning

  • Cooling
  • Heating
duct cleaning

Does your home have an HVAC system? Then it’s important to perform regular duct cleaning to ensure the air flow into your home is as clean as possible. The system’s vents will get dusty over time, since dust particles are naturally drawn into the duct along with the air. By cleaning them thoroughly, you can reduce the amount of unwanted particulate in your household’s airflow. In addition, by keeping your air ducts clean, your HVAC system will be more energy-efficient, which will prevent your energy bills from rising. 

How to clean your air ducts yourself

Fortunately, you can do routine duct cleaning yourself. You’ll need a Phillips screwdriver; household cleaner; a cloth; warm, soapy water (optional); microfiber cleaning cloths; and a vacuum cleaner (preferably one with a HEPA filter) with a dust brush. You’ll also need protective eyeglasses, a face mask, and sturdy rubber gloves.

  • Turn off your HVAC system. Before starting, turn off your HVAC system. The last thing you want is for air to be blowing onto you while you’re trying to remove dust and debris from the vent. 
  • Remove the vent cover. Wall vent covers need to be unscrewed. Do this carefully to avoid damaging the wall. Some floor vents can simply be lifted up, while others also need to be unscrewed. 
  • Clean the vent cover. There’s likely dust caught in the vent cover; plus, it will feel greasy to the touch. You can clean it with a regular household cleaner and a cloth, or you can wash it in warm water and dish detergent. Always make sure to dry it carefully. 
  • If you have vent register filters, clean them. Some vents have filters installed to catch pet hairs or other things. If your vents have filters, remove the debris that’s built up, and clean them.
  • Vacuum the inside of the vent. Attach the dust brush to the vacuum cleaner and reach as far as you can inside the vent. Vacuum up all visible dust and debris.
  • Wipe the inside of the vent. Using a microfiber cleaning cloth and the household cleaner, wipe the inside of the vent as far as you can reach. 
  • Re-attach the vent cover. Carefully replace the vent cover. If it’s attached with screws, make sure they’re firmly screwed in place. 
  • Clean your HVAC system’s filter. To get the best performance from your HVAC and ensure the best indoor air quality, clean or replace your HVAC’s filter when you’ve finished cleaning your vents. 

Note that if you find any signs of mold infestations, pests, or damage to the inside of the ducts, you’re best advised to call your HVAC expert right away as these are issues you shouldn’t address yourself. 

Why you should still schedule professional duct cleaning

Keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to schedule professional duct cleaning and maintenance at least once a year. That way, your HVAC specialist can remove all dust and debris you might not be able to reach and at the same time, repair any damage that might be causing air leaks. And in the long run, whatever time, effort, and money you spend on duct cleaning is an investment in better indoor air quality—and that’s better for your and your family’s health. 

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By nshec

10 Common Causes for Furnace Electrical Failure

Jan 17, 2022

10 Common Causes for Furnace Electrical Failure

  • Heating
  • Miscellaneous
furnace electrical failure

Your heating system broke down in the middle of the coldest night of the season. Oh no! Before you call a professional for furnace repair, you need to know what caused your system trouble to begin with. If it’s a result of bad electrical connections, you definitely need to know what went wrong, even it just comes down to a blown fuse. The clock is ticking, and the weather isn’t getting any warmer.

Here, we’ll explain what kinds of electrical problems can sink your furnace’s performance so you can call for help before you’re left without heat at all.

The Importance of Furnace Maintenance

Your furnace has a big job. It’s tasked with keeping your family warm and comfortable during the winter months. With proper maintenance, your furnace will continue to heat your home efficiently for many years to come, helping you save money on utility bills while providing a steady flow of heat throughout your home. If left unattended to, however, your furnace could leave you facing costly repair or replacement bills. Improperly maintained furnaces often have shorter life spans and increased safety hazards. Not to mention, they can leave homeowners without heat when they need it most.

10 Common Causes of Furnace Failure

Wondering what leads to furnace electrical failure? The following are 10 common problems incurred by improperly maintained furnaces:

  1. Clogged filter. Dirty or clogged filters reduce airflow, which ultimately forces the furnace to work harder to circulate air. Clogged filters can also damage the limit switch, which is responsible for controlling the fan. Be sure to clean your filters regularly, or simply swap them out for new ones.
  2. Loose wiring. When your furnace is running, it causes a certain amount of vibrations. Over time, these vibrations can cause internal wiring to become loose, which can eventually lead to an electrical short. A single loose wire can be difficult to find, so it’s best to have regular tune-ups to ensure your wiring stays tightly connected.
  3. Incorrect fuses. It’s essential to equip your furnace with fuses large enough to handle the capacity of your heating system. If a fuse is too small, it will almost assuredly result in electrical problems.
  4. Dirty fuses. Dirt and soot are normal parts of your furnace’s daily life, but it’s important not to let these elements build up. Excessive grime can impede your fuses from being able to connect to the electrical components. To ensure sustained connectivity, be sure to keep your fuses cleaned as part of regular, ongoing maintenance.
  5. Exposure to water. Water and electricity don’t mix. If your furnace is tucked away in a damp place or located near any water leaks, an electrical failure is likely in your future. Seal any leaks to remove excessive moisture that could cause your furnace’s electrical system to fail.
  6. Transformer failure.  Transformers are responsible for converting energy into the correct voltage necessary to run your furnace’s controls, ignition, and timer. If your transformer isn’t functioning properly, it won’t support your home’s electrical system correctly. If you’re unsure about your transformer’s capacity, it’s best to contact an HVAC professional as soon as possible.
  7. Faulty starting capacitor. The capacitor is to your furnace as the starter is to your car. It’s necessary to get the system started. If your capacitor is on the fritz, it may cause intermittent electrical problems. Faulty capacitors can be replaced fairly inexpensively, which should solve the problem.
  8. Faulty blower motor. Motors require a good amount of energy. If your blower motor is failing, it will put additional strain on your power source, eventually leading to an electrical short. A faulty blower motor should be replaced by an HVAC expert.
  9. Failed valves. Natural gas or propane furnaces are equipped with valves that regulate gas pressure. If a valve is malfunctioning and unable to open and close properly, the pressure regulators will not work properly. This can cause the malfunctioning valve to heat up, resulting in an electrical short and a blown fuse.
  10. Thermostat control wiring problems. There are plenty of wires surrounding your furnace, and if someone isn’t careful, he or she could inadvertently move or disconnect the wires that interact with your thermostat. The control board of your furnace has a separate fuse that keeps it from getting too hot. Beyond the surface lies your furnace’s wire frame, which can easily be the culprit for blown fuses and short circuits, particularly if someone erroneously found their way to this thermostat control system and relocated some of the wiring.

When it comes to your home heating system, it’s always better to be proactive, rather than reactive. Furnace electrical failure can leave you out in the cold when you need heat the most. To ensure your heating system stays healthy and happy, schedule regular furnace tune-ups with HVAC professionals.

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By nshec

Furnace 101: Everything You Should Know As a Savvy Homeowner 

Dec 30, 2021

Furnace 101: Everything You Should Know As a Savvy Homeowner 

  • Heating
  • Miscellaneous
furnace

The most common source of home heating in the United States is the furnace. But most people don’t understand how this amazing piece of machinery really works.  It’s either out in the garage or in the basement, out of sight and out of mind.

However, if you’re a homeowner, it is important to understand how this heating system works. Why? If your furnace is displaying issues, it’s better to recognize there is a problem and have a general idea of what may be causing the furnace problem rather than have the issue go unnoticed or ignored.  The results could be dangerous and extremely expensive in labor, repairs, replacement and other costs.  

Benefits of Understanding How Your Furnace Works

Homeowners who understand how their furnace works will experience many long-term benefits, including:

  • A longer lasting heating system:  When a homeowner understands how their furnace works, the chances of noticing a problem right away increases.  The more a furnace is inspected and maintained, the longer it will last.  And since this is an expensive piece of equipment for your home, you will want to avoid having to replace it before its time.  
  • Greater energy efficiency:  A furnace that is working at it’s best will produce heat in your home with ease, making your property greener. However, if your furnace struggles to work, it will take more and more energy to produce heat and in the long run, this will cost your more money and put unnecessary stress on the furnace system.  
  • Quicker reaction time to problems: The faster you notice a problem with your furnace, the quicker you can get someone to take a look at it.  This will prevent any hiccups in your heating. The last thing you want is to be stuck in a cold house where the heat isn’t working.  
  • Improved home comfort:  When your furnace works the way it is supposed to, you can be guaranteed a warm, comfortable home all season long.  By paying attention to your furnace and how it is working, you can avoid any major problems during the colder months.  

How Your Furnace Works

The furnace is a remarkable piece of machinery that is responsible for you keeping you and your family warm as the temperature drops outside.  To understand how it does this, we have broken down the process into steps.  Essentially, a furnace heats a home using the six step process outlined here:

 

  • Step 1:  The thermostat senses the temperature in the home.  If the temperature is too low, according to the temperature you set on the thermostat, the furnace burner turns itself on. Sometimes you will hear a clicking sound when this happens.  
  • Step 2:  Once the burner is on, it will continue to run until the temperature set on the thermostat is reached and maintained.  Your furnace is smart and can sense the temperature in the house at all times – as long as it is working correctly.  
  • Step 3:  Now that the furnace is running, what is actually happening inside the device?  The heat produced by the burner circulates inside the heat exchanger, which then transfers combustion gasses to the flue vent connector and then to a building chimney where they are vented outside. These gases belong outside because if they are contained in a small space, such as your home, they produce negative health effects such as eye and respiratory irritation, coughing, headaches, tiredness and dizziness.  

The following last steps are straightforward and explain how a furnace turns a cold house into a place of warmth after getting rid of combustion gases. 

  • Step 4:  The furnace also works as an air filter during this next step.  Using an electric fan, the furnace pulls in fresh, cold air and filters it so that you won’t be breathing in dust and other harmful particles.  Not only that, but the air must be clean when running through the system to keep the machinery in tip top shape. For this reason, it is Important to replace filters every few months.  
  • Step 5:  At this point, the filtered air passes into the plenum, a small, enclosed space.  The hot air rises from the heat exchanger and then circulates throughout the home via air ducts. This heating process continues over and over until the desired temperature is created and maintained throughout the home.  
  • Step 6:  The furnace regulates itself with a blower fan.  The fan is able to turn on and off to regulate the amount of heat produced.  System size is important at this stage.  If a furnace is too large for the area it intends to heat, it will short-cycle.  If it is too small, the furnace will constantly run during the colder months and  in turn use a lot more energy to heat a home than should be necessary.  

As a homeowner, it is your job to understand how something as important as a heater works to heat your home.  Being able to recognize the steps a heater takes to produce heat will help you understand if there is a problem and get it taken care of right away.   

For More Information on All Things Heating Maintenance, Call NSHEC Today!

Contact North Shore Home Energy Today for the Best in Heating Maintenance!

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By nshec