Keep the Warmth Flowing: Show Some Love to Your Furnace Venting This Valentine’s Day!
This time of year, your furnace is working hard to keep you and your loved ones warm and cozy. This is especially true for the winters in New Hampshire. To make sure you have a working furnace for Valentine’s Day, make sure to keep an eye out for some common mishaps your furnace may experience.
How Can I Be Sure It’s Working As It Should?
There is one clear sign that indicates that your furnace isn’t operating as it should. Your furnace should be venting out of your house, if it isn’t, then you may notice “sweat” on your house’s windows. You will notice a clear difference than when it is operating properly. Additionally, you may even see some rust on the front of your furnace. Why might this happen? Keep reading to learn about some of the most common causes.
You may have a backdraft
If your furnace isn’t getting adequate air, it may be experiencing backdraft. This is when exhaust fumes are pulled backward into your home. This can be caused by a number of things, such as an obstruction in the furnace flue, negative air pressure, or inappropriate flue size. If there isn’t enough oxygen, the harmful exhaust fumes may struggle to escape upward and out as they should.
There may be flue liner damage
Some flue liners, specifically ones made of clay tiles, can eventually crack, chip, or crumble. They are susceptible to damage from high heat as well. If this happens, this can be potentially dangerous as it can let carbon monoxide into your home. Homeowners may want to opt for a stainless-steel flue liner as they are less prone to damage.
How to Avoid Heating Issues In the Future
First and foremost, it’s important to have a fully charged CO detector installed at all times. Carbon monoxide is often referred to as the silent killer, as you often don’t know there is a presence until symptoms occur, and they can be deadly. Because of this, all homeowners should have CO detectors just in case.
In addition, you should have professionals perform a full furnace inspection annually. Tune-ups can handle any damage and catch any ventilation issues early. Throughout the year, it is good to look out for warning signs that your furnace may not be operating as it should. Look for “sweat” on your windows or any signs of excess moisture that should be venting out of your house.
Need Fireplace Venting Assistance? Call Today
Fire N’ Stone has been the go-to chimney and fireplace contractor in the central New Hampshire area since 1999. Our experienced team offers a full range of services, including inspections, maintenance and chimney sweeping, repairs, and more. We are always more than happy to assist you with any questions pertaining to your chimney.
Our technicians are fully licensed, insured, and certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. We are a family-owned and locally operated company, so you can expect 5-star customer service on every call.