Spring is definitely in the air, and with the warmer weather fast approaching, there is no time like the present to take care of your furnace by making sure you follow the proper shutdown procedures. Its not uncommon for homeowners to neglect the correct shutdown procedures and leave their furnaces turned on year-round. Before they know what’s happening, they are scratching their heads at the steadily increasing energy bills. The solution is a simple one; you can save a ton of money on your heating and air conditioning repairs simply by shutting down your furnace during the summer months.

Why Should I Turn Off My Furnace After Winter?

Homeowners across the nation leave their furnaces running year-round, often under the impression that turning the unit to the off position is the same as a complete shutdown. Unfortunately, even in the offsetting, your furnace will still continue to run and use energy. Gas furnaces burn natural gas continuously to operate the pilot light. While this is particularly helpful during the winter keeping the pilot light on during the warmer months is not only a waste of energy, it can also result in increased energy costs. Gas and electric furnaces have several sensors that will continue to run throughout the year if your furnace isn’t completely shut down.

How Do I Turn Off My Furnace for the Summer?

Gas furnaces: According to energy experts, running your gas furnace during the summer months can increase your energy bill by approximately $50-$80 each year, depending on current natural gas prices. Locate the gas valve on the side of your furnace and turn it to the off position. Once the valve is shut off, the pilot light will go off as well.
Electric furnaces: Your electric furnace will continue to use electricity even when it’s turned to the off position. To correctly shut down your electric furnace, you will need to turn off the power to the circuit connected to your furnace. To do this, you will need to turn off the circuit breaker located in your electrical panel that powers your furnace.

How Do I Maintain My Furnace in the Summer?

Shutting down your furnace correctly is just one part of the equation; you will also need to make sure that you are taking proper care of your furnace to ensure it’s ready for the winter months.
• Keep the area clean and clutter-free: To prevent fire hazards and airflow problems, keep the site around your furnace clear of boxes and other items. Clean and vacuum to keep dirt, dust, and other debris from clogging the filter.
• Inspect your air registers: Examine the air registers and clean off any dust and dirt to ensure that your furnace works effectively when you need it the most.
• Test your carbon monoxide detectors: Your carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors must be in correct working order. Even a tiny hairline crack in the fluid exchange or heat pipe can result in dangerous carbon monoxide levels resulting in injury or death if undetected. Even when your furnace is not being used, it’s prudent to get into the habit of testing your detectors to ensure they are in proper working order.
• To keep your furnace working at optimal performance levels, schedule your annual tune-up and maintenance service with your Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning expert technician.

HVAC Tune Up Maintenance, Repair, Replacement & More in Springfield, Granby, Holyoke, South Hadley, Monson, Chicopee & Agawam, Massachusetts

To learn more about furnace maintenance, repairs, and new installations or cooling services, contact the professionals of Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning today.