When it comes to maintaining the integrity of your home in chilly Chicago, IL; remaining vigilant about your HVAC is paramount. Sure, professional heating service is crucial, but being armed with DIY tips for furnace repair, furnace service, and AC installation can save you a fortune.
1. Regular Maintenance:
Just like every other machine in your home, your furnace needs regaular upkeep. Cleaning and replacing your furnace filters every three months or whenever they become too dirty can safeguard your furnace from damage and save on energy costs.
2. Troubleshooting Basic Problems:
Several basic issues can arise in a furnace, which need not always require a professional furnace service. If your furnace declines to start, check the circuit breaker or fuse. If it’s not running correctly, it might be due to the thermostat settings. Familiarize yourself with these little details and procedures to tackle problems head-on.
3. Inspect the Burner Flames:
Ensure the flames in the burner are blue and even. Yellow-colored flames may point to a possible gas problem, which should be handled by a professional heating service like Oasis Heating.
4. Sealing Your AC Unit:
If you’re attempting DIY AC installation in Chicago, IL, make sure you seal around the area where your AC unit fits into the window. You can use foam insulation or duct tape to prevent the cold air from seeping out or hot air from coming in.
5. Regularly Clean and Replace AC filters:
For your AC to work efficiently, its filters should be cleaned or replaced monthly or as recommended by the manufacturer’s guidelines.
6. Thermostat Setting:
How you set your thermostat can affect your HVAC service and energy bills. It’s advisable to set it at 78 degrees in summer when you are home and higher when you are away. In winter, 68 degrees is normally comfortable.
7. Use a Cover:
Believe it or not, a simple plastic cover can make a huge difference in the quality and durability of your outdoor HVAC unit. Especially in Chicago, where harsh winters can cause significant damage.
8. When In Doubt:
In certain cases, where safety and complexities come into play – like serious furnace repair or AC installation – consider reaching out to a professional heating service. Remember, we at Oasis Heating are always ready to help Chicago residents maintain comfort throughout the year.
In conclusion, paying attention to these DIY tips can extend your HVAC system’s lifespan and help keep a balanced checkbook. However, finding balance in what you can do and what should be left to your professional could make a big difference. This way, you’ll stay cozy and warm during those cold Chicago nights.