How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Furnace and Avoid Breakdowns
Your furnace works tirelessly to keep your home nice and warm all winter long. However, just like with other mechanical systems, it should be given consistent upkeep to ensure it runs as efficiently as possible and to reduce the risk of any inconvenient breakdowns. Taking care of your furnace can help it last years longer, especially compared to one that is poorly maintained. It also means reduced heating costs!
Here are some useful suggestions to maximize the lifespan of your furnace and ensure the best operation for many winters to come.
Replace the Filter Regularly
The filter captures dirt, animal dander and other airborne particles to prevent them from entering the system’s more sensitive components. Over time, the filter gets clogged with debris, obstructing ventilation and causing your furnace to exert more effort. This added strain can lead to furnace troubles and sometimes permanent system damage.
To maintain efficient performance, don’t forget to check and change the filter as needed, depending on your heating habits and the type of filter in place.
Invest in Your Home’s Energy Efficiency
Another way to lessen your furnace’s potential 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 keep heat from escaping, making it easier for your furnace to reach a comfortable temperature. Whenever your furnace runs efficiently, it experiences less wear and tear, increasing its lifespan.
Schedule Yearly HVAC Tune-Ups
Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional helps promote your furnace’s reliable operation. During the appointment, your technician examines, services and otherwise optimizes the system for best performance. This preventative care helps identify small issues before they escalate, preventing costly repairs. A regular inspection also reduces energy waste, saving you more money on energy bills.
Tidy Up Around the Furnace
Keeping the space around your furnace clean ensures steady, unobstructed airflow. Make sure the area is cleaned regularly and not near any hazardous materials. This avoids any safety issues, ensuring your furnace performs more efficiently.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
A smart thermostat gives you more control than ever in your home, through features such as scheduling automatic setbacks when you’re out or sleeping. This reduces operating time, cutting costs and minimizing strain.
Address Any Repairs Immediately
If you notice strange sounds, uneven heating or unexpected utility spikes, don’t postpone looking into these signs of trouble. Even small malfunctions can gradually become more severe situations. If left ignored, it could affect the total lifespan of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs stop further damage and keep your system better protected.
Ensure Balanced Airflow
Your furnace will only perform at its peak when the ventilation between supply and return vents is evenly distributed. Blocking or closing more than 80% of your supply registers can cause overheating or force your furnace to work harder. To help keep things running smoothly, make sure that all air vents are open and free from being blocked by any curtains. This enables your furnace to move air as intended.
Set Your Furnace to a Reasonable Temperature
Setting your thermostat above normal forces your furnace to work overtime, putting unnecessary strain on the entire system. This constant demand causes extra wear and tear. To keep it running longer, set your thermostat to a seasonally appropriate temperature—such as between 68 and 72 degrees F. You can also adjust the temperature by around 8-10° while you’re out of the house. These simple changes cut costs and reduce further stress on your furnace.
Consider Replacing an Old Furnace
When your furnace is outdated and breaks down more often, it may be time to replace it. Modern furnaces feature improved performance while still lowering heating costs. Although the pricetag may be higher than a repair, the smaller utility bills and increased efficiency make it a cost-effective, practical solution.
Trust Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Reliable Furnace Maintenance
Properly servicing your furnace avoids any premature, costly failures, 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 complete sense of comfort. Our experienced technicians offer prompt, truly Expert service.
If it’s been a while since your last maintenance visit or if you’re looking for customized recommendations to strengthen your furnace, please contact us today!
