How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Furnace and Avoid Breakdowns
Your furnace is working round the clock to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long. Still, like any appliance, it does best with routine care from trained technicians to ensure it performs its best and to avoid any inconvenient breakdowns. Taking care of your furnace makes it more likely to last 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 keep it running more efficiently for many years to come.
Replace the Filter Regularly
The filter captures dirt, fur and other airborne particles to stop them from reaching the system’s more delicate components. Over time, the filter becomes blocked with debris, obstructing ventilation and making your furnace to operate less efficiently. This unnecessary effort can lead to overheating and sometimes permanent system damage.
To maintain efficient performance, remember to check and change the filter on a regular basis, depending on your heating habits and the type of filter installed.
Reduce Your Home’s Energy Loss
Another way to minimize your furnace’s total workload is to take what steps you can to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Proper insulation and sealing around windows and doors will keep heat from escaping, making it easier for your furnace to hold a comfortable temperature. As long as 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 supports your furnace’s long-term performance. During the appointment, your technician inspects, services and otherwise tunes up the system for best performance. This preventative care helps identify small issues before they become something more serious, preventing costly repairs. A regular inspection also reduces energy waste, saving you more money on energy bills.
Maintain a Clean Space Around the Furnace
Keeping the space around your furnace clear promotes airflow and safe operation. Make sure the area is clean and well clear of flammable materials. This avoids any safety issues, ensuring your furnace performs more effectively.
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 away or asleep. This reduces operating time, saving energy and helping preserve the system.
Fix Problems as Soon as You Notice
If you start noticing odd humming, temperature inconsistencies or rising heating costs, don’t postpone looking into these red flags. Even small problems can gradually evolve into more severe situations. If left unchecked, it could reduce the overall service life of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs help avoid further damage and keep your system safe.
Maintain Proper Circulation
Your furnace will only perform at its peak when the ventilation between supply and return vents is balanced. Sealing off the majority of your supply registers can cause overheating or force your furnace to work itself too hard. 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 properly.
Choose Energy-Efficient Temperature Settings
Setting your thermostat above normal forces your furnace to work overtime, putting unnecessary strain on the entire system. This increased workload leads to reduced efficiency. To minimize this kind of gradual damage, set your thermostat to a reasonable temperature—such as between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. You can additionally adjust the temperature by around 8-10° while you’re asleep or on a trip. These strategies save energy and prevent any excess wear on your furnace.
Consider Replacing an Old Furnace
If your furnace is showing its age and requires seemingly constant maintenance, it may be time to consider a new model. Modern furnaces offer the best in heating technology while reducing energy consumption. Although the initial investment may be higher than a repair, the long-term savings and increased efficiency make it a smart choice.
Trust Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Reliable Furnace Maintenance
Maintaining your furnace avoids any premature, costly failures, enhances its day-to-day operation and can even ensure a long service life. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is committed to helping you keep a complete sense of comfort. Our licensed technicians provide efficient, reliable service.
If it’s been a while since your last maintenance visit or if you’re interested in customized recommendations to maximize your furnace, please contact us today!