Statistics provided by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reveal that home heating mistakes rank highly among the top causes of home fires. In fact, it’s second only to cooking equipment. The NFPA estimates that 15% of all residential fires are due to heating systems, arising from problems in terms of quality, installation, handling, weather, and maintenance.
A faulty home heating system can be a severe source of discomfort within the house. You are advised to contact central air conditioning experts in Riverton whenever your heating system fails to perform as expected. A faulty system can be caused by any of the following home heating problems:
1. Cranking up the thermostat
Cranking up the thermostat to get heat faster does not increase the heating rate. The HVAC system distributes the same amount of heat at one speed. Therefore, increasing the temperature by several degrees increases the operating time of your heating equipment. Set the thermostat at the desired temperature, and then let your heating system run its cycle. If your home is taking too long to heat, perhaps the problem is in the insulation and air ducts.
2. Using the fireplace as your primary heat source
Although it may seem like the best idea to use the stove in place of the heater, this practice has more disadvantages than advantages. The heated air will leave the house via the chimney. Chilly air from the outside will get into your living space through the same chimney; therefore, making your home inefficient.
3. Not changing air filters
Experts recommend that you check the air filters frequently. You should check them at least once every 60 days. Clogged air filters can affect the operation of your HVAC system, as well as inefficiency that leads to high energy bills. They can also affectindoor air quality, leading to respiratory problems, allergies, and other conditions. You can quickly check if your air filter might have become clogged by holding it up to the light.
4. Skipping the recommended maintenance schedule
Missing a scheduled maintenance check can lead to expensive repairs and reduce the service life of your HVAC system. Even worse, it could render your manufacturer’s warranty invalid.
5. Self-installation of a new thermostat
Do not install a new thermostat yourself. You may think that you are saving on labor costs, but it can cost you more money in the long run. HVAC installation requires proper training and technical knowledge. It is involving and complicated. Call the specialists instead, as they know the building codes, requirements, and everything else that ensures the safe and efficient operation of the HVAC system.
6. Leaving thermostat down too low
When no one is in the house for an extended period, do not turn down your thermostat too far. The savings you make could be overtaken by the cost you will incur when your heat source works extra hard to raise the temperature to a comfortable level when you return home.
In 2015, home heating mistakes were identified as the culprit in 15, 030 U.S. home fires, resulting in 480 casualties, 1,470 injuries and $1.1 billion in property damage. Don’t be part of the statistics. Call a professional to assist you with HVAC system installation, repair, tune-up, and other related services.