Furnace FAQ
Heating season is just beginning but the questions about furnaces are rolling in! We thought it might be helpful to post and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about heating season and equipment. Here we go!
1. Is it safe to turn my furnace on before maintenance has been completed? The answer is YES! A good cleaning and tune-up on the furance is needed to keep it running as efficiently as possible. However, it's not necessary to have this service done before the furnace is turned on for the first time each year. It's just important that it's done once a year. We actually recommend turning the furnace on before it gets too cold outside. That way, if there is a problem with the furnace and you are without heat, you can get it taken care of before it's really cold.
2. There was an odor when I turned my furnace on the first time. Is this normal? Dust will collect and settle in the furnace during the summer months when it is not being used. When the furnace is fired off the first time, the dust will burn off the heat exchanger. Some people describe it as a burning smell. This is normal and will go away after the furnace has cycled a few times. If an odor continues though, it's best to get it checked out.
3. How often do I need to change my filter? Is it the same filter that I changed for the air conditioner? An HVAC system consists of a furnace (either gas or electric) and either an air conditioner or heat pump. Each system has a filter that needs to be changed regularly. It's the same filter whether you are using the furnace or air conditioner. If you have a 1" filter, it's recommended to check the filter once a month and change as needed (usually once a month or once every other month). If you have a media filter- 4" or 5"- it is recommended to check the filter every 3 months and change as needed. Changing the filter is very important!! A dirty filter can restrict air flow enough to make the furnace or air conditioner stop working.
4. I have a heat pump and a furnace. Do I need to turn the heat pump off and furnace on? All you need to do is turn your thermostat to Heat. Your heat pump will turn on in heating mode. Your heat pump will heat the house until it reaches a certain temperature outside. This is called a set point and is already set on your heat pump. For example, if your set point is 32 degrees, than once the outdoor temperature gets that cold, your furnace will automatically turn on. If you have a gas furnace, your system will automatically switch from using the heat pump to using the gas furnace. If you have an electric furnace, the furnace will kick on at the same time to help the heat pump maintain the indoor temperature. This is all done automatically so there's nothing you need to do to make this happen!
5. There seems to be something wrong with my furnace. What do I do? There are a couple of things that you can do on your own. Check your filter. If the filter is dirty, change the filter, then turn the furnace off and back on. Also, check the batteries in your thermostat (if applicable). If the thermostat screen has gone blank, it could just be batteries. If you still have a problem, then give us a call and we'll be happy to set up an appointment.
If you still have a question about your furnace, please don't hesitate to ask! We want you to stay warm and comfortable in your home.
What Should I Look For in an HVAC Company?
Let's face it: replacing the HVAC system is usually the last thing someone wants to do! Replacing a furnace and/or air conditioner is an investment in your home. People often think about the brand of equipment, equipment efficiency and the budget, but what about the company that will install the new equipment? Did you know that many brands of equipment are comparable in features, but how well it works is really dependent on how well it's installed? What should you look for in an HVAC company? Here are a few things to consider:
Most importantly, is the company insured and bonded? In the off-chance that something should happen during the install, such as an injury or property damage, does the company carry liability insurance and a bond to cover the damages? Another example, straight from John Moore Insurance Agency, is this: the installation of your new HVAC system takes two days so the company leaves material in your garage with the intent of installing it the following day. If that material gets stolen or vandalized, would that be a claim on your personal insurance policy? Not if you've hired a company that is insured and bonded!
Is the company licensed in Marion County? If you live in Marion County, the City of Indianapolis requires a permit to replace/install a new furnace, air conditioner or heat pump. Only licensed companies can pull permits. The purpose of this is to ensure that your installation is done properly and to code. What happens if a permit is not pulled? If code enforcement sees work being done and there is not a permit, work will be ordered to stop, a permit will have to be pulled and a fine paid.
Do you know of anyone that's worked with the company? I think it's safe to say that we always feel more comfortable working with a company that was referred by someone else. If someone thinks highly enough of a business to recommend them, then they've had a good customer experience and it's likely that you will too. If you don't know anyone that's personally worked with them, check out their website or see if they have any customer reviews online. Then, follow your gut!
What is the policy on service and warranty? After the company installs your new HVAC system, are they also able to maintain and service it? Does the company offer 24 hour service? Is it easy to get in touch with them? Will the company handle equipment warranties? Ask questions!
So many times, homeowners think only about the equipment to be installed and price. While these are important factors, it's just as important to choose the right company. Experience, proper licensing and insurance, and reliability make all the difference.