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Furnace Not Producing Enough Heat? Here are Some Things to Check

furnace-not-producing-enough-heatYour furnace is not producing heat, and your first thought is anticipating an expensive service call. Before you start contemplating which of your belongings you’ll need to sell in order to pay for it, take a deep breath and try these troubleshooting tips. You may find a simple fix and your Denver Metro home will be warm again in no time.

Check the Furnace Filter.

Furnace filters should be changed every 1 to 3 months. How long has it been since you changed yours? If you don’t remember (or worse, you’ve never changed it), this could be your problem. A dirty furnace filter is one of the most common reasons furnaces don’t produce enough heat. Luckily, this is an easy and inexpensive fix. While you’re at it, buy one or two extras and make a note in your calendar to check it again in a month.

Make Sure the Furnace is Clean.

You can remove the access panels to your furnace and inspect the components for any build-up of dust, dirt and debris. Use your vacuum’s extension hose to clean the components.

Check Your Vents & Ducts.

Make sure your vents are open and unobstructed. Sometimes belongings or furniture can inadvertently cover them, blocking airflow and preventing heat from reaching the room. Also, do not close vents in unused rooms as this can cause airflow issues as well. The harder your furnace has to work to push air through the ventilation system, the longer it takes to bring the heat up. Dirt, dust and debris cause your furnace to work harder than necessary. Keep vents clear and ductwork clean.

Check Your Thermostat.

Thermostats located in direct sunlight or near an often-used outside door can cause the thermostat to misread the room temperature and delay signaling the furnace to turn on. The thermostat may need to be moved, if this is the case. The thermostat may also be faulty. You can find tips for troubleshooting your thermostat here.

Check Your Insulation.

Poor insulation or drafty windows can cause a large amount of heat loss. Replace worn weather stripping around doors and windows. Caulk or patch any other holes and leaks.

Contact ABE Heating and Cooling for furnace maintenance and to help ensure your home’s comfort level meets your expectations.