Q: Is it necessary to change filters regularly?
Yes, about once per month, especially with old duct work that has not been cleaned for years because your filter can get clogged very quickly. For cleaner air we recommend electronic air cleaners or super high-efficient filters.
Q: Is there anything special I need to do to get my heating system ready for winter?
Most heating systems are quite reliable and will provide you with quick, comfortable heat when you need it, providing you take good care of the system. We recommend that you have your furnace serviced annually by a qualified contractor.
Q: Is annual maintenance really necessary?
Your heating system is a finely tuned piece of machinery that is designed to squeeze the most heat from your energy dollars. Your heating system operates for months on end and if one of the components of that system is not working in harmony with the rest of the furnace, you are losing efficiency and money.
Annual maintenance inspections often spot small problems before they become large, and very expensive repairs. Annual maintenane can also spot dangerous operating conditions that could lead to production of carbon monoxide, which could be a potentially deadly situation.
Q: What causes the cracks to form in a furnace's heat exchanger?
In the normal course of furnace operation, the heat exchanger experiences repeated heating and cooling which causes a corresponding expansion and contraction of the metal. Cracks will tend to form in areas of the heat exchanger that are weak, such as the areas that have been welded together at the factory. More weak spots and holes will form as a result of corrosion. Corrosion of the heat exchanger often signifies problems with the exhaust venting. What happens is that water in the exhaust which contains carbonic acid cools too quickly and condenses out, draining back down the chimney and onto the heat exchanger where the acid eats away at the metal.
We love cats, if you do too - please know that the litter box next to the furnace isn't a good idea. Corrosion and, therefore, damage to your heat exchanger can be caused by the ammonia fumes from the nearby cat litter box. (The litter box should always be at least 15 feet away from the furnace.)
Q: How can I tell if the heat exchanger in my furnace has cracks?
You can't. Most cracks in the heat exchanger occur in areas that are hidden away. Even if the cracked areas of the heat exchanger were visible, the cracks themselves are extremely difficult to detect by anyone without a trained, experienced eye.
Q: What is the best way to find a cracked heat exchanger?
The two approved ways to find a crack in the heat exchanger are either a visual of the crack or by a parts-per-million carbon monoxide detector. We recommend that you always get a second opinion.
Q: What is the most common reason for furnace replacement?
A cracked heat exchanger is the most common reason to have your furnace replaced, although there are other valid reasons for replacement.
Q: Why does my heating system smell when I first start it up every season?
This is a common situation. Dust builds up in the heating ducts during the year and when the first warm air of the season heats the ducts the warmed dust becomes airborne. The heated dust gives off an odor.
Q: Why should I get a new furnace?
Radical changes have taken place in home comfort technology in recent years and the result has been better and more efficient heating and cooling equipment. To achieve higher efficiencies new gas furnaces must move more air over the heat exchanger than old furnaces. In addition, the better air flow can improve overall comfort by reducing air temperature differences from the ceiling to the floor throughout the entire home.
Q: Why is two-stage heating better than single-stage heating?
Traditional furnaces are designed to heat your home by keeping you warm during your area's coldest weather. Unlike traditional furnaces, two-stage furnaces are designed to operate like two separate furnaces, maintaining consistent comfort levels throughout your home. Two-stage furnaces also provide more consistent air flow, improving filtration and because the furnace spends the majority of its time at its lower capacity, it burns less fuel.
Q: Do I need a carbon monoxide detector?
Carbon monoxide is odorless and tasteless and can only be detected by a good quality carbon monoxide detector. We recommend a carbon monoxide detector with digital readout which starts sounding an alarm at ten parts-per-million.
