How Furnace Repair and Maintenance Can Improve Indoor Air Quality

12/18/2015
The weather outside if frightful, but your furnace was made to keep your home feeling delightful. Your HVAC system keeps you snug and warm during the chilly winter months, but if your system is in need of repair it could be making you ill. As you’ve taken the necessary steps to keep your home as energy-efficient this chilly winter, you’re also sealing off your home from fresh air. This could cause a rise in both allergens and pollutants. Your annual furnace repair appointment will help keep your air clean and comfortable year-round. There are also some steps you can take between your once-a-year maintenance visits to secure your air quality and health.

Checking and changing your furnace filter is one of the most important things you can do between furnace repair and maintenance visits. It’s typically suggested that furnace filters be changed at minimum every 3 months (some longer), but it’s wise to check it once a month for debris. This is especially important if you live in a home with smokers or pets. Pollen, pet dander, dust mites and assorted debris more easily build up in dirty filters and that affects the health of those with sensitivities. A dirty filter will also cause a decline in your system’s efficiency and lifespan.

It’s not likely you’ll be able to open windows and let in fresh air during the winter months and your carpets and furniture will build up all types of indoor pollutants. Keep your home as well-kept as possible during this cold time of year. Not only will you be ready for any unexpected guests, but you’ll keep the dust from disrupting your allergies or blocking your air filter. If you don’t have one already, a smart purchase is a vacuum with a HEPA filter.

Yearly furnace repair and maintenance is not just crucial for the life of your furnace, but also for your health. If you own a gas furnace, your home is heated by natural gas or propane. Carbon Monoxide is a natural byproduct of furnace operation. When your system is operating well, CO is channeled out of the home through an exhaust pipe. Your yearly maintenance will find any leaks and and make sure it is operating properly.

Your home is your castle. We want to work with you in order to keep you as healthy and comfortable as possible. Call us at 417-739-4606 and chat with one of our furnace repair technicians if you have any questions about keeping your furnace and air quality in tip-top shape this season. Or you can conveniently set up an appointment with us online.