Tips for Keeping Your Furnace Running Smoothly as Long as Possible

Your furnace is working round the clock to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long. However, like any appliance, it should be given regular maintenance to ensure it performs its best and to avoid any inconvenient breakdowns. Maintaining your furnace ensures it lasts years longer, especially compared to one left alone. It also means reduced heating costs!

Here are some useful suggestions to extend the lifespan of your furnace and maintain peak performance for many years to come.

Replace the Filter Regularly

The filter blocks dirt, animal dander and other airborne airborne contaminants to keep them out of the system’s more sensitive components. Over time, the filter gets clogged with debris, restricting airflow and causing your furnace to work harder. This added strain may cause overheating and sometimes permanent system damage.

To avoid those kinds of problems, check and replace the filter around every 1 to 3 months, depending on total usage and the type of filter you use.

Reduce Your Home’s Energy Loss

Another way to lessen your furnace’s overall workload is to take what steps you can to boost your home’s energy efficiency. Proper insulation and other sealing accessories around windows and doors will reduce heat loss, making it easier for your furnace to hold a comfortable temperature. Whenever your furnace runs efficiently, it experiences less wear and tear, extending its lifespan.

Keep Up with Routine HVAC Maintenance

Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional ensures your furnace’s reliable operation. During the appointment, the technician examines, cleans and otherwise optimizes the system for best performance. This regular preventive maintenance helps identify small issues sooner rather than later, avoiding costly repairs. A regular tune-up also reduces energy waste, lowering your monthly energy bills.

Keep the Area Near Your Furnace Clear

Keeping the area around your furnace clear promotes better airflow. Make sure the area is kept dust-free and well clear of flammable materials. This avoids fire and similar safety risks, ensuring your furnace circulates more efficiently.

Consider Trying a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat lets you set precise temperatures in your home, through features such as scheduling automatic setbacks when you’re not home or in bed. This limits run time, lowering your energy bill and helping preserve the system.

Fix Problems as Soon as You Notice

If you begin to notice any strange sounds, uneven heating or rising heating costs, don’t postpone looking into these red flags. Even small problems can quickly become more severe situations. If left unresolved, it could affect the total lifespan of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs can prevent further damage and keep your system better protected.

Maintain Proper Circulation

Your furnace will only operate at its best when the airflow between supply and return vents is well-regulated. Blocking or closing the majority of your supply registers can lead to heat buildup or force your furnace to work itself too hard. To help prevent any issues, make sure that your air vents are open and free from being blocked by any furniture. This enables your furnace to circulate warmth efficiently. 

Choose Energy-Efficient Temperature Settings

Setting your thermostat too high forces your furnace to work overtime, putting unnecessary strain on the entire system. This constant demand leads to extra wear and tear. To avoid cutting your furnace’s lifespan short, set your thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature—ideally between 68-72° F. You can also adjust the temperature by a few degrees while you’re asleep or on a trip. These simple changes reduce total heating expenses and reduce further stress on your furnace. 

Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Model

If your furnace is showing its age and requires seemingly constant maintenance, it may be time to replace it. Modern furnaces feature higher performance than ever while still lowering heating costs. Although the pricetag may be higher than a repair, the smaller utility bills and better performance make it a smart choice. 

Rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to Maintain Your Furnace’s Health

Properly servicing your furnace reduces the risk of malfunctions, enhances its day-to-day operation and can even extend its total potential lifespan. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing takes pride in helping you keep a warm and comfortable home. Our experienced technicians offer efficient, truly Expert service.

If it’s been a while since your last maintenance visit or if you’re looking for more personalized advice to strengthen your furnace, please contact us today!