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, like any other utility, it benefits from consistent upkeep to ensure it runs as efficiently as possible and to hopefully prevent any inconvenient breakdowns. Maintaining your furnace makes it more likely to last years longer, especially compared to a neglected system. It also means more affordable energy use!
Here are some useful suggestions to maximize the lifespan of your furnace and ensure the best operation for many years to come.
Replace the Filter Regularly
The filter captures dust, pet hair and other airborne allergens to stop them from reaching the system’s more sensitive components. Over time, the filter fills up with debris, restricting airflow and forcing your furnace to exert more effort. This extra wear and tear can lead to furnace troubles and sometimes irreparable damage.
To avoid those kinds of problems, remember to check and replace the filter on a regular basis, depending on total usage and the type of filter you use.
Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
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 sealing around windows and doors will reduce heat loss, making it easier for your furnace to reach a comfortable temperature. As long as your furnace runs efficiently, it suffers less wear and tear, prolonging its lifespan.
Schedule Yearly HVAC Tune-Ups
Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional supports your furnace’s long-term performance. During the appointment, the technician checks, services and otherwise tunes up the system for best performance. This preventative care spots small issues before they become something more serious, avoiding costly repairs. A regular tune-up also reduces energy waste, lowering your monthly energy bills.
Maintain a Clean Space Around the Furnace
Keeping the area around your furnace clean encourages steady, unobstructed airflow. Make sure the area is cleaned regularly and well clear of flammable materials. This prevents fire hazards, ensuring your furnace circulates more smoothly.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
A smart thermostat lets you set precise temperatures in your home, through features such as scheduling automatic setbacks when you’re away or asleep. This reduces the time your system is running, cutting costs and helping preserve the system.
Address Any Repairs Immediately
If you notice strange sounds, uneven heating or unexpected utility spikes, don’t wait to check out these signs of trouble. Even small issues can rapidly evolve into more severe situations. If left ignored, it could reduce the overall service life of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs can prevent further damage and keep your system safe.
Ensure Balanced Airflow
Your furnace will only perform at its peak when the circulation between supply and return vents is well-regulated. Obstructing the majority of your supply registers can result in heat buildup or force your furnace to work harder. To help prevent any issues, regularly check that the air vents are open and free from being blocked by any furniture. This allows your furnace to circulate warmth as intended.
Set Your Furnace to a Reasonable Temperature
Setting your thermostat above normal forces your furnace to run constantly, putting excess stress on the entire system. This added energy load causes reduced efficiency. To avoid cutting your furnace’s lifespan short, set your thermostat to a seasonally appropriate temperature—ideally between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. You can alternatively adjust the temperature by a few degrees while you’re away. These simple changes cut costs and reduce further stress 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 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 increased efficiency make it worthwhile.
Rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to Maintain Your Furnace’s Health
Maintaining your furnace avoids any premature, costly failures, maximizes efficiency and can even promote a longer service life. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing takes pride in helping you keep a comfortable home environment. Our experienced technicians offer prompt, truly Expert service.
If it’s been a while since your last maintenance visit or if you’re interested in more personalized advice to strengthen your furnace, please contact us today!
