Tips for Keeping Your Furnace Running Smoothly as Long as Possible

Your furnace is working round the clock to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long. However, like any appliance, it benefits from regular maintenance to ensure it runs as efficiently as possible and to reduce the risk of any inconvenient breakdowns. Taking care of your furnace can help it last years longer, especially compared to one that is poorly maintained. It also means more affordable energy use!

Here are some helpful steps to maximize the lifespan of your furnace and ensure the best operation for many winters to come.

Replace the Filter Regularly

The filter blocks dirt, fur and other airborne particles to stop them from reaching the system’s more sensitive components. Over time, the filter fills up with debris, restricting airflow and causing your furnace to work harder. This extra wear and tear can lead to furnace troubles and sometimes irreparable damage.

To maintain efficient performance, remember to check and swap out the filter as needed, depending on your heating habits and the type of filter in place.

Reduce Your Home’s Energy Loss

Another way to reduce 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, making it easier for your furnace to maintain 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 supports your furnace’s reliable operation. During the appointment, a technician inspects, cleans and otherwise tunes up the system for best performance. This preventative care helps identify small issues sooner rather than later, avoiding costly breakdowns. 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 clean ensures steady, unobstructed airflow. Make sure the area is cleaned regularly and well clear of hazardous materials. This avoids any safety issues, ensuring your furnace circulates more efficiently.

Use a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat lets you set precise temperatures in your home, through features such as scheduling automatic setbacks when you’re not home or sleeping. This reduces the time your system is running, saving energy and minimizing strain.

Fix Problems as Soon as You Notice

If you notice strange sounds, stubborn cold spots or rising heating costs, don’t postpone looking into these red flags. Even small issues can gradually evolve into more severe breakdowns. If left ignored, it could reduce the overall service life 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 ventilation between supply and return vents is evenly distributed. Obstructing more than 80% of your supply registers can cause overheating or force your furnace to work harder. To help maintain good performance, make sure that the air vents are open and free from being blocked by any curtains. This allows your furnace to distribute heat as intended. 

Choose Energy-Efficient Temperature Settings

Setting your thermostat beyond energy-efficient levels 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 an energy-efficient temperature—ideally between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. You can additionally adjust the temperature by around 8-10° while you’re away. These adjustments reduce total heating expenses and lessen any strain on your furnace. 

Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Model

When your furnace is outdated and needs more frequent repairs, it may be time to upgrade. Modern furnaces feature higher performance than ever while still reducing total power use. Although the initial investment may be higher than a repair, the long-term savings and increased efficiency 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, enhances its day-to-day operation and can even extend its total potential lifespan. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing specializes in helping you keep a warm and comfortable home. Our licensed technicians offer fast, truly Expert service.

If it’s been a while since your last furnace tune-up or if you’re seeking more personalized advice to optimize your furnace, please contact us today!