Tips for Keeping Your Furnace Running Smoothly as Long as Possible

Your furnace works tirelessly to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long. But, just like with other mechanical systems, it benefits from routine care from trained technicians to ensure it runs smoothly and to hopefully prevent any inconvenient breakdowns. Proper maintenance for 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 practical tips to maximize the lifespan of your furnace and keep it running more efficiently for many winters to come.

Change the Filter on a Regular Basis

The filter captures dust, pet hair and other airborne particles to keep them out of the system’s more vulnerable components. Over time, the filter becomes blocked with debris, limiting air circulation and forcing your furnace to work harder. This extra wear and tear could result in overheating and sometimes permanent system damage.

To avoid those kinds of problems, remember to check and swap out the filter on a regular basis, depending on total usage and the type of filter in place.

Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Another way to minimize 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 keep heat from escaping, making it easier for your furnace to reach a comfortable temperature. As long as your furnace runs efficiently, it undergoes less wear and tear, extending its lifespan.

Schedule Annual Preventative Maintenance

Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional supports your furnace’s long-term performance. During the appointment, your technician inspects, cleans and otherwise optimizes the system for best performance. This preventative care detects small issues sooner rather than later, avoiding costly failures. 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 clear ensures steady, unobstructed airflow. Make sure the area is kept dust-free and well clear of hazardous materials. This avoids any safety issues, ensuring your furnace performs more efficiently.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

A smart thermostat lets you set precise temperatures in your home, with features like scheduling automatic setbacks when you’re not home or in bed. This reduces run time, cutting costs and minimizing strain.

Address Any Repairs Immediately

If you notice unusual noises, uneven heating or unexpected utility spikes, don’t postpone looking into these concerns. Even small issues 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 safe.

Keep All Vents and Registers Unblocked

Your furnace will only function best when the airflow between supply and return vents is evenly distributed. Obstructing too many of your supply registers can cause heat buildup or force your furnace to work harder. To help maintain good performance, make sure that your air vents are open and free from being blocked by any rugs. This enables your furnace to circulate warmth as intended. 

Set Your Furnace to a Reasonable Temperature

Setting your thermostat too high forces your furnace to work overtime, putting extra wear on the entire system. This increased workload causes reduced efficiency. To keep it running longer, set your thermostat to a reasonable temperature—such as between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also adjust the temperature by 8 to 10 degrees while you’re away. These simple changes save energy and lessen any strain 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 upgrade. Modern furnaces provide higher performance than ever while still lowering heating costs. Although the upfront cost may be higher than a repair, the smaller utility bills and increased efficiency make it worthwhile. 

Choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to Keep Your Furnace Running

Taking care of your furnace prevents breakdowns, maximizes efficiency and can even promote a longer service life. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is committed to helping you maintain a comfortable home environment. Our experienced technicians offer fast, trustworthy service.

If it’s been a while since your last maintenance visit or if you’re interested in customized recommendations to optimize your furnace, please contact us today!