When your heater can't keep up with cold Tacoma winters, you need solutions fast. Many homeowners notice their furnace not keeping up when temperatures drop below a certain degree. We'll show you how to keep your house warm in extreme cold and what to do when your heating system struggles.
Warning Signs Your Furnace Can't Keep Up With Extremely Cold Weather
Watch for these signs:
- Your home never reaches the set temperature
- Some rooms stay cold while others warm up
- Your furnace runs constantly
- You're seeing rising heating bills despite normal use
If you're struggling to stay warm this winter because your HVAC system can't go head-to-head with extreme cold, there are solutions. Check out these tips below to keep your furnace running its best and improve your home comfort.
Simple Steps To Help Support Your Furnace
Keep Temperature Settings Steady
If your furnace can't keep up with cold snaps, don't lower the temperature setting when you're away. One of the greatest perks of having a programmable thermostat is indeed choosing an automatic lower temperature setting for when you're not home. However, trying to reduce heating costs and save energy could strain your furnace. Maintaining a consistent setting helps prevent your system from working overtime to reheat your space.
Use Ceiling Fans Effectively
Set fans to clockwise rotation in winter. This pushes heated air down to living areas and aids your heater when it can't keep up with cold temperatures outside.
Change Air Filters
A dirty filter strains your system. Replace it every 1-3 months, depending on the type of filter you use and whether you have any pets in the home. This simple step often helps when your furnace isn't keeping up with demands.
Get Rid of Dust and Debris
Keeping your HVAC system's ductwork free of dust is essential, especially if you or your family have allergies. If it's been more than 2-3 years since your last air duct cleaning, schedule a service appointment to protect your heating system. Clean ducts also help your system work better and more efficiently.
Clear All Vents
Blocked air vents make it harder for your furnace to heat your home. Move furniture, curtains, and rugs away from vents to improve airflow.
Stop Drafts
Seal drafty windows and doors and keep curtains shut when it's very cold out or there is no sun shining. Cold air entering your home makes your furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable environment. Use things like weather stripping, foam tape, and shrink wrap for windows to stop warm air from escaping.
Professional Solutions for Better Heating
Whether your house has a heat pump, boiler, or furnace, keeping the unit in top condition will keep your system running at its best. Regular furnace maintenance in Tacoma prevents unexpected problems and improves system efficiency. Here's what we provide at Mercurio's when you schedule a service appointment:
- Thorough Inspections
We catch small issues before they lead to bigger problems. Schedule maintenance in late fall before extreme cold hits.
- System Optimization
A well-maintained furnace heats more efficiently. This means lower energy bills and better performance during cold snaps. It's wise to schedule maintenance once or twice a year.
- Indoor Air Quality Improvements
Clean systems work better and provide healthier air for your family, especially if anyone in the home has allergies. We change filters and inspect your system to make sure it's operating at peak performance.
Choose Mercurio's Heating & Air Conditioning
Since 1992, our professionals have solved Tacoma's toughest heating challenges. We offer:
- Free estimates
- Complete HVAC services
- Plumbing services
- Electrical services
- Trained and experienced technicians
- Fair pricing
If your furnace is struggling with Tacoma's cold weather, contact us today. Our team serves Tacoma, WA, and the surrounding areas. We'll help keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long!
