Tips for Keeping Your Furnace Running Smoothly as Long as Possible

Your furnace is working round the clock to keep your home nice and warm all winter long. But, like any appliance, it should be given regular maintenance to ensure it runs as efficiently as possible and to avoid any inconvenient breakdowns. Proper maintenance for your furnace makes it more likely to last years longer, especially compared to one left alone. It also means lower energy bills!

Here are some useful suggestions to prolong the lifespan of your furnace and ensure the best operation for many winters to come.

Replace the Filter Regularly

The filter blocks dirt, pet hair and other airborne airborne contaminants to stop them from reaching the system’s more vulnerable components. Over time, the filter gets clogged with debris, restricting airflow and forcing your furnace to work harder. This added strain may cause overheating and sometimes more serious issues.

To maintain efficient performance, don’t forget to check and replace the filter as needed, depending on how often you use the system and the type of filter you use.

Invest in Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Another way to lessen 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 minimize any heat loss, allowing your furnace to reach a comfortable temperature. When 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 helps promote your furnace’s overall health. During the appointment, the technician examines, services and otherwise tunes up the system for best performance. This preventative care helps identify small issues before they escalate, preventing costly breakdowns. A regular inspection also improves efficiency, saving you more money on energy bills.

Maintain a Clean Space Around the Furnace

Keeping the area around your furnace clean ensures steady, unobstructed airflow. Make sure the area is kept dust-free and not near any flammable materials. This avoids fire and similar safety risks, ensuring your furnace circulates more efficiently.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

A smart thermostat gives you more control than ever in your home, with features like scheduling automatic setbacks when you’re not home or in bed. This limits operating time, lowering your energy bill and helping preserve the system.

Don’t Put Off Furnace Repairs

If you notice strange sounds, stubborn cold spots or rising heating costs, don’t postpone looking into these concerns. Even small issues can quickly develop into more severe breakdowns. If left unresolved, it could shorten the lifespan of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs help avoid further damage and keep your system safe.

Keep All Vents and Registers Unblocked

Your furnace will only function best when the airflow between supply and return vents is well-regulated. Blocking or closing the majority of your supply registers can result in 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 distribute heat efficiently. 

Set Your Furnace to a Reasonable Temperature

Setting your thermostat above normal forces your furnace to run way too much, putting excess stress on the entire system. This constant demand results in reduced efficiency. To keep it running longer, set your thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature—for example between 68-72° F. You can alternatively adjust the temperature by 8 to 10 degrees while you’re asleep or on a trip. These strategies reduce total heating expenses and lessen any strain on your furnace. 

Consider Replacing an Old Furnace

As soon as your furnace is showing its age and needs more frequent repairs, it may be time to upgrade. Modern furnaces feature higher performance than ever while reducing energy consumption. Although the initial investment may be higher than a repair, the total lifetime repair costs and better performance make it a cost-effective, practical solution. 

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

Properly servicing your furnace prevents breakdowns, maximizes efficiency and can even promote a longer service life. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing takes pride in helping you enjoy a comfortable home environment. Our certified technicians deliver prompt, trustworthy service.

If it’s been a while since your last heating tune-up or if you’re looking for tailored tips to maximize your furnace, please contact us today!