How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Furnace and Avoid Breakdowns
Your furnace works hard to keep your home at a warm, comfortable temperature all winter long. But, just like with other mechanical systems, it should be given regular maintenance to ensure it runs as efficiently as possible and to reduce the risk of any inconvenient breakdowns. Proper maintenance for your furnace can help it last years longer, especially compared to one left alone. It also means more affordable energy use!
Here are some practical tips to maximize the lifespan of your furnace and maintain peak performance for many years to come.
Change the Filter on a Regular Basis
The filter traps debris, fur and other airborne allergens to stop them from reaching the system’s more vulnerable components. Over time, the filter becomes blocked with debris, obstructing ventilation and forcing your furnace to operate less efficiently. This unnecessary effort can lead to furnace troubles and sometimes more serious issues.
To avoid those kinds of problems, check and change the filter on a regular basis, 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 reduce your furnace’s potential workload is to take what steps you can to enhance your home’s energy efficiency. Proper insulation and sealing around windows and doors will reduce heat loss, making it easier for your furnace to reach a comfortable temperature. When your furnace runs efficiently, it suffers less wear and tear, prolonging its lifespan.
Keep Up with Routine HVAC Maintenance
Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional ensures your furnace’s long-term performance. During the appointment, the technician examines, cleans and otherwise tunes up the system for best performance. This preventative care detects small issues sooner rather than later, avoiding costly repairs. A regular tune-up also improves efficiency, saving you more money on energy bills.
Tidy Up Around the Furnace
Keeping the area around your furnace clean promotes better airflow. Make sure the area is kept dust-free and well clear of flammable materials. This prevents fire hazards, ensuring your furnace performs more efficiently.
Use a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat allows you to truly fine-tune the heating in your home, with features like scheduling automatic setbacks when you’re not home or asleep. This reduces the time your system is running, cutting costs and helping preserve the system.
Address Any Repairs Immediately
If you start noticing unusual noises, temperature inconsistencies or rising heating costs, don’t postpone looking into these red flags. Even small malfunctions can rapidly evolve into more severe situations. If left unchecked, it could shorten the lifespan of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs stop further damage and keep your system safe.
Ensure Balanced Airflow
Your furnace will only perform at its peak when the airflow between supply and return vents is evenly distributed. Blocking or closing more than 80% of your supply registers can lead to excess strain or force your furnace to work harder. To help prevent any issues, make sure that the air vents are open and free from being blocked by any curtains. This enables your furnace to move air as intended.
Avoid Overworking Your Furnace
Setting your thermostat beyond energy-efficient levels forces your furnace to work overtime, putting extra wear on the entire system. This added energy load leads to reduced efficiency. To keep it running longer, set your thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature—ideally between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. 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
If your furnace is old and breaks down more often, it may be time to upgrade. Modern furnaces offer higher performance than ever while still reducing total power use. Although the initial investment 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 prevents breakdowns, maximizes efficiency and can even ensure a long service life. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is committed to helping you enjoy a complete sense of comfort. Our certified technicians provide fast, truly Expert service.
If it’s been a while since your last furnace tune-up or if you’re looking for more personalized advice to strengthen your furnace, please contact us today!
