LANSING, Mich. — Frigid temperatures outside can leave you cranking up the heat inside and kicking your furnace into over-drive, and there are important safety tips to know when it comes to furnaces.
Technicians from Lammer's Heating in Jackson say modern furnaces should last 15 years, but poor maintenance can cause it to shut down and lead to expensive repairs.
If it is a break down in the system, the first thing you can do is check your filter. If it is clogged or if it is dirty, that could be the reason why your furnace is not operating efficiently.
Experts say it's simple to identify an old air filter by checking for discoloration. If the filter appears to be black, brown or gray you should replace it.
If the heat is not turning on check the thermostat to make sure the proper program is set.
Experts say a healthy furnace should turn on within a few
minutes of setting the thermostat. If it doesn't respond, you may need to call a professional for assistance.
Experts say it's also important to clear the sidewall vent outside of your home after a heavy snowfall to keep the air flowing and prevent a furnace failure.
