Can You Run a Furnace With a Cracked Heat Exchanger?
If you’ve just been told your furnace has a cracked heat exchanger, it’s a stressful moment—especially in the middle of a Minnesota winter. You may be tempted to keep it running “just for tonight,” or wonder whether the risk is really that serious. Here’s the bottom-line answer: no, you should not run a furnace with […]
Should I Be Running the Furnace Fan Continuously in Winter?
If your home feels uneven—warm in some rooms, chilly in others—you’re not alone. A lot of Minnesota homeowners start wondering whether running the furnace fan all the time in winter might help even things out and keep the air fresher. Here’s the simple answer: running your furnace fan continuously can help balance temperatures and improve […]
Should I Set My Thermostat Fan on or Auto in Winter?
Are you wondering; should I set my thermostat fan on or auto in winter? For the majority of winter operation, it’s best to leave your thermostat on “Auto” for maximum energy savings. However, you should switch to “On” for short periods if you are struggling with cold spots, uneven temperatures, or need to maximize air […]
Why Is My Thermostat Not Reaching the Set Temperature?
You’re probably wondering; why is my thermostat not reaching the set temperature? Your thermostat isn’t reaching the set temperature usually because of airflow issues (dirty filters/vents), poor thermostat placement (sunlight, drafts), low batteries, calibration errors, wiring problems, or a struggling HVAC system (undersized unit, low refrigerant, failing motor), all leading to incorrect readings or restricted […]
Does Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Help?
You’re probably wondering; does closing ac vents in unused rooms help? No, closing AC vents in unused rooms usually doesn’t help and can actually harm your HVAC system by disrupting balanced airflow, increasing duct pressure, leading to leaks, frozen coils, cracked heat exchangers (CO risk!), and higher energy bills, despite the common belief it saves money. Experts […]
Can I Install a New Thermostat Myself?
You’re probably wondering; Can I Install a New Thermostat Myself? Yes, you can often install a new thermostat yourself, as it’s a common DIY project involving low-voltage wiring, but you must turn off power first, photograph existing wires, label them, match them to the new unit (getting a C-wire adapter if needed for smart models), […]
Why Does My Furnace Keep Turning Off and On?
Short cycling—when a furnace turns off and on repeatedly—wastes energy, stresses parts, and usually means something simple needs attention. Homeowners in Minnesota see this most when temperatures swing or filters clog. Most furnaces short cycle because of restricted airflow (dirty filter), an overheating safety shut‑off, a mis-sized system, or thermostat/pressure switch issues. Replacing the filter […]
Can a Furnace Leak Carbon Monoxide Into Your Home?
Yes, a furnace can leak carbon monoxide if there’s a crack in the heat exchanger, damage to the flue pipes, or faulty ductwork, which allows the toxic gas to enter your home instead of being vented outside.
Why Does My Furnace Smell Like Burning?
That sharp, toasty odor coming from a heater can be unnerving—especially when Minnesota temps drop and your furnace finally kicks on for the season. Homeowners often ask if a burning smell means something is wrong, or if it’s normal after sitting idle for months. Most burning smells are caused by dust burning off heat exchangers […]
Essential HVAC Maintenance Tasks For the Start of the Fall Season
Summer has started to loosen its grip on our area, and we can already feel a hint of fall in the air. School is back in session, football season has kicked off, and before you know it, we’ll be attending bonfires, picking pumpkins and drinking hot cocoa. It’s an exciting time to be out and […]