Tips for Keeping Your Furnace Running Smoothly as Long as Possible
Your furnace is working round the clock to keep your home at a warm, comfortable temperature all winter long. But, like any appliance, it should be given consistent upkeep to ensure it runs as efficiently as possible and to hopefully prevent any inconvenient breakdowns. Taking care of your furnace ensures it lasts years longer, especially compared to one that is poorly maintained. It also means more affordable energy use!
Here are some useful suggestions to extend the lifespan of your furnace and keep it running more efficiently for many years to come.
Swap Out Your Furnace Filter When Recommended
The filter blocks debris, fur and other airborne allergens to stop them from reaching the system’s more sensitive components. Over time, the filter fills up with debris, limiting air circulation and causing your furnace to work harder. This added strain could result in furnace troubles and sometimes permanent system damage.
To keep things running smoothly, remember to check and replace the filter around every 1 to 3 months, depending on your heating habits and the type of filter installed.
Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
Another way to minimize your furnace’s total workload is to take what steps you can to enhance your home’s energy efficiency. Proper insulation and other sealing accessories around windows and doors will minimize any heat loss, making it easier for your furnace to reach a comfortable temperature. As long as your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard, it experiences less wear and tear, prolonging its lifespan.
Keep Up with Routine HVAC Maintenance
Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional supports your furnace’s long-term performance. During the appointment, your technician checks, cleans and otherwise tunes up the system for best performance. This preventative care spots small issues before they escalate, avoiding costly breakdowns. Regular maintenance also reduces energy waste, saving you more money on energy bills.
Tidy Up Around the Furnace
Keeping the space around your furnace uncluttered encourages airflow and safe operation. Make sure the area is cleaned regularly and not near any flammable materials. This avoids fire and similar safety risks, ensuring your furnace performs more smoothly.
Use a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat lets you set precise temperatures in your home, through features such as scheduling automatic setbacks when you’re away or in bed. This reduces run time, cutting costs and helping preserve the system.
Fix Problems as Soon as You Notice
If you start noticing unusual noises, stubborn cold spots or rising heating costs, don’t delay checking out these concerns. Even small malfunctions can quickly become more severe breakdowns. If left unchecked, it could shorten the lifespan of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs can prevent further damage and keep your system running.
Ensure Balanced Airflow
Your furnace will only perform at its peak when the ventilation between supply and return vents is well-regulated. Blocking or closing the majority of your supply registers can lead to excess strain or force your furnace to exert more effort than it should. To help prevent any issues, make sure that all air vents are open and free from being blocked by any rugs. This enables your furnace to move air efficiently.
Choose Energy-Efficient Temperature Settings
Setting your thermostat beyond energy-efficient levels forces your furnace to work overtime, putting unnecessary strain on the entire system. This added energy load results in reduced efficiency. To avoid cutting your furnace’s lifespan short, set your thermostat to a reasonable temperature—for example between 68-72° F. You can alternatively adjust the temperature by a few degrees while you’re sleeping. These simple changes cut costs and lessen any strain on your furnace.
Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Model
When your furnace is outdated and needs more frequent repairs, it may be time to upgrade. Modern furnaces provide improved performance while still lowering heating costs. Although the upfront cost may be higher than a repair, the total lifetime repair costs and increased efficiency make it worthwhile.
Rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to Maintain Your Furnace’s Health
Taking care of your furnace prevents breakdowns, maximizes efficiency and can even promote a longer service life. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is committed to helping you keep a complete sense of comfort. Our licensed technicians deliver efficient, trustworthy service.
If it’s been a while since your last heating tune-up or if you’re seeking tailored tips to optimize your furnace, please contact us today!
