(WXYZ) — Is your furnace ready for the frigid temperatures moving our way?
It is going to be so cold - some furnaces won’t be able to maintain the temperatures you set on your thermostat.
So what do you need to know to give it the best chance at keeping you warm?
I spoke to the experts at Robin Aire Service Company. They tell me here in Michigan code requires furnaces be designed to maintain at least 70 degrees in 0 degrees.
As we face sub-zero temperatures, they say there are 5 things you can do to help your furnace
The number one thing you need to do is make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working.
Number two: Replace your filter.
Number three: If your thermostat sets back your temperature when you are at work or at night, set it on hold to maintain one temperature.
“You’re not going to save anything, it is going to run either way,” says Eric Stephens. Of Robin Aire. “When it is this cold the furnace is going to run and run and run keeping the house warm regardless.”
Number 4: If you have a 90 percent efficiency furnace - check the vents. Ice and snow can block the vents and shut down the furnace.
“Make sure the snow is not covering the intake or the exhaust,” says Stephens. “If it is starting to get ice on it break the ice off it.”
And finally have an expert periodically check out your furnace.
“I can’t stress enough about maintenance,” Stephens says. “Getting that furnace check every year, making sure it is safe. Keeping it clean is huge.”
He says that can help you identify problems before it is too late and it is freezing out and your furnace can’t stand the stress.
