FURNACE EFFICIENCY, SAFETY & MAINTENANCE

Furnaces in homes throughout North America are cranking up for a long winter season. It is especially important to have furnaces inspected and maintained to ensure that they run efficiently and safely as we head into the colder months.

SIMPLE WAYS TO IMPROVE EFFICIENCY

By some accounts, home heating, especially gas furnaces, can represent half of a typical home’s winter utilities bill. Efficient operation can mean lower energy bills and a more comfortable home. For example, programmable thermostats can be used to automatically turn heat up or down at specified times, so that the temperature is lowered overnight or while no one is at home. Thermostats should be calibrated occasionally to avoid “off cycle” heat loss; a properly calibrated thermostat will result in more even heating between the on/off cycles, which is both more efficient and comfortable.

SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE

Safety is also an important factor in furnace operation. Gas furnaces can be a source of carbon monoxide if there are leaks or cracks do not let them go unnoticed or unrepaired. The furnace flame should be steady hot blue flame; if not, this should be addressed immediately. A qualified contractor or inspector can detect these types of problems and recommend needed action.

Simple furnace maintenance includes checking and replacing disposable air filters and cleaning electronic style filters, as well as keeping dust, hair, and lint away from the burner compartment and air intake. No matter what  type it is, a well-maintained furnace will not only last longer, but can save energy, money, and help a home’s overall air quality and comfort.

CONSIDERING A NEW FURNACE?

If a new furnace is necessary, it is a good opportunity to evaluate the various types of furnaces available and how well they might meet a home’s specific situation. Furnaces are defined  as Conventional,  Mid Efficiency, and High Efficiency. There are advantages and drawbacks to each type, some are better suited to older homes, for example, and cost may be a factor in considering various types of systems. However, the ability of some new furnaces to reduce off cycle heat loss, eliminate the need for an always-on pilot light, etc. make replacing a furnace worth considering if a current system is in need of repair or functioning poorly.

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Making A Smooth Move Into That First Home

Moving Tips for First-Time Home Buyers

First-time homebuyers may be among the only group of people who look forward to a move with

unadulterated excitement. After all, moving into that first home is a momentous occasion and one that

warrants celebration. But moving is one of those things that gets easier with experience. Here are some tips

to help first-time homebuyers avoid some common mistakes and move into their new home like a seasoned

pro.

Less is More

This statement couldn’t be truer when it comes to moving. So, try to put off major furniture and appliance

purchases until after you’ve moved into your new home, thus reducing the amount of heavy items you need

to move. If you are moving to another state and plan to use a professional mover, keep in mind that the cost

of your move is based upon the weight of your shipment. If you must shop ahead of time, see if the retailer

will hold the items and deliver them to your new home after you’ve moved into it.

Rid Yourself of Possessions You Don’t Want or Need

Many first-time homebuyers own a hodge-podge of furniture and home décor items that they’ve used in their

apartments or college living quarters. Visualize where your current possessions will go, then decide what to

do with those pieces that will end up being stored away in a closet or basement of your new home, only to be

tossed out later. Consider donating what you don’t really want or need, or partner with a friend who has a

carport or garage and hold a rummage sale.

Be Prepared

Advance planning and organization will make your move go smoother. Keep all documents related to your

move in one easily accessible location. Use a folder, notebook or even a daily planner to keep track of

important phone numbers and documents. Referrals for new physicians, maps of your new town and contact

information for old friends are just a few more things that you may want to stash in your organizer.

Consider Hiring a Professional

Even though it may seem less expensive to move with the help of friends and family, don’t forget to factor in

some of the costs of “doing it yourself.” There are still moving expenses involved, such as moving supplies

and boxes, packing tape and materials, and rental fees on a truck, dolly or other equipment. Plus, you

probably need to provide at least one meal on moving day to those who showed up to help you. So, it might

be wise to get a few moving estimates from professionals before you make a final decision.