Lewis Maclean December 2017

Lewis Maclean December 2017

DECEMBER 2017

Staying Warm, Cozy and Safe This Winter

you keep your furnace needs to stay clean. When dust accumulates around the furnace over time, some of that dust will be pulled in through the filter, which then reduces airflow. Schedule annual inspections for your furnace, boiler, hot water heaters and so on. When these appliances are neglected, you won’t know if there is a problem lurking behind the scenes. If the gas utility companies consistently offer rebates on inspections, they must think it’s pretty important as well. Take advantage of these rebates and keep potential problems at bay.

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Furnace filters need to be checked regularly and replaced, before they become so bad you can’t warm your home. When we go out on these “no-heat” calls, we typically replace the filter and do a complete check of the furnace, looking for other issues. Most times, we get it up and running again — sometimes, we don’t. When the filter inhibits airflow, the furnace can overheat. We’ve already replaced a few furnaces that were beyond repair because they overheated and caused other irreparable problems. If you aren’t sure how to replace your furnace filter, you can always give us a call — we’re happy to help. We want you to stay warm and cozy just as much as you do! As we settle into winter, there are a few other topics I want to touch on — things we’ve mentioned in previous newsletters. But I’d like to share again, just in case anyone missed them. It’s a good idea to vacuum and dust around your furnace and hot water tank. Just like the other rooms within your home, the space where

Check your carbon monoxide detectors. Just as you test your smoke detectors and replace their batteries every six months to a year, you should also check your CO detectors. Test them to make sure they are operational and the alarm is audible. You may even need to replace your CO detectors if they are over five years old — they are only considered safe and reliable for a period of five years. After that, they need to be recycled and replaced. Shut off and drain your outside taps. Frozen pipes can cause a lot of damage and cost you a pretty penny in repairs. If possible, disconnect all hose fittings from the outside taps. Unscrew them completely and make sure they are drained. Finally, if you notice any strange, unexplainable noises or smells in your home, don’t hesitate to give us a call. As you rely on your heating systems this winter, you may notice things you haven’t before. It may be a loose fitting or clogged air filter. No matter the issue, it’s best to stay safe, so you can remain warm and cozy this winter.

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When you’re in the market for a new heating system, there are several things to consider. There’s more to buying the right unit than knowing the square footage of your home. Many people are surprised to learn it’s possible to buy the wrong sized furnace for their home, even after taking the square footage into consideration. Should you buy a furnace that is too small, chances are you won’t discover the mistake until the day you need that furnace. This kind of situation can be averted when you work with a furnace expert who knows what factors create the ideal furnace. The expert and installer will communicate to the homeowner when a furnace will not be adequate. If you find yourself in need of a new furnace, here are four mistakes you want to avoid when making that important purchase. Buying the wrong size furnace. As we discussed, you should always consult with a professional to determine the right size unit for your home. Determining the right size involves more >Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4

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