While Minnesota is renowned for its many perks – such as Garrison Keillor sightings, lutefisk, and the Vikings – it is equally known for its brutally cold winters. As a result, furnace maintenance in Minnesota is a matter of crucial significance. Other parts of the country may allow you to skip regular furnace maintenance. Not so in Minnesota! The fact that you’ll be using your furnace for at least 60% of the year means that regular furnace maintenance is one of the best long-term strategies to save money and keep your furnace from cutting out in the middle of winter! Read on to learn about the dangers of poor furnace maintenance.
The Dangers of Poor Furnace Maintenance
Although it is crucial to implementing the function of a house or commercial structure, because it is not easily visible, the furnace can easily be subject to neglect. This is a huge mistake, and can produce alarming results when it comes to the safety of your building or home.
The biggest risk of poor furnace maintenance strategy—a strategy that aims to skimp on maintenance with the unfortunate result of curtailing the furnace’s longevity—is the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a naturally-occurring byproduct of incomplete combustion, but can produce harmful results. Because it is odorless and colorless, it can be difficult to detect. Thus, although virtually all gas furnaces produce some small amount of carbon monoxide, dirty furnaces that are not regularly maintained produce a greater, and possibly more harmful amount. Between 1999-2010, a total of 5,149 deaths caused by non-fire related carbon monoxide poisoning were reported in the United States alone.
An improperly maintained furnace will produce a host of other unwanted effects as well. Failure to maintain your furnace can shorten its lifespan by up to 50%. Unsafe furnaces with dirty build-up accruing are dangerous fire hazards, potentially putting your entire home or commercial structure in danger. A poorly functioning furnace will also elevate your yearly heating and energy costs.
Maintaining your furnace is a small investment with long term rewards. With our expert help, it’s easier than ever.