Heating & Furnace FAQs

How often should my heating system be checked?

Annual check-ups by a qualified technician are recommended for proper efficiency. Get your heating unit tuned up in the fall. Humidifiers, air to air exchangers, etc. are also serviced during a “tune up”.

How often should I change my furnace filter?

Check it every month and change it when dirt is visible. How often it needs to be changed depends on three factors:

• How often the equipment runs
• The conditions around your equipment when it runs
• The filter you have

What is the biggest energy user in my home?

Minnesota winters make the furnace, boiler or heat pump your biggest energy consumer.

How do I keep my windows dry in winter?

An air-to-air heat exchanger or “HRV” will reduce the moisture in any home to clear off the windows. However, you could try a little higher room temperature setting and see if that works.

What is the “warm room” concept?

As we try to shrink our environmental “footprint” some people turn the heat down very low in rooms that are not used as often. Be aware that using an electric space heater or other type of heating device can offset the savings gained by limiting your central heater use. Automatic thermostats that control heating and cooling settings are a great way to save and conserve energy. Unlike a space heater, this strategy never forgets when you are away.

Is solar hot water cost effective?

Using solar energy for hot water in domestic homes is a great idea. The sun’s energy is free and has zero emissions. We can install a system for you today. It might be less cost effective than other systems we offer, but it’s much more eco-friendly than other alternatives.

What does the efficiency rating on my furnace mean?

It pertains to the energy that actually heats your home, not lost through exhaust. The higher the efficiency rating of your furnace, the greater the potential energy and cost savings.

What size furnace do I need?

Sizing of equipment can be a complicated process. To guarantee accuracy, contact a licensed HVAC company such as ABEL Heating and Cooling to show you what furnace size would be best for your building.

Do I qualify for a rebate since I just got a high-efficiency furnace?

Most likely, you do. The rebate programs are processed by the local energy companies. We can supply you with the necessary paperwork if you’d prefer.

When should I replace my furnace?

Furnaces should last for 10-20 years under normal circumstances.
Lifetime depends upon:

• How well it has been maintained
• How often it has been used
• Under what conditions it has been used

A furnace that has gone through a remodeling project could have lost a few years.

Should I turn down heat at night to save energy?

Turning down your heat can save money and energy. But it takes an 8° temperature difference over 8 hours to notice substantial savings. Check the owner’s manual for the thermostat in your building. It should offer recommendations for energy savings.

How can I regulate humidity when running the heater?

The humidity level can be controlled by a humidistat on a whole-house humidification system. One that has an outdoor temperature sensor is recommended. If you do not currently have whole-house humidification, we can help you to decide if this is a good option for you.