Ways to Help Extend Your Furnace’s Service Life

Your furnace is working round the clock to keep your home at a warm, comfortable temperature all winter long. Still, just like with other mechanical systems, it does best with routine care from trained technicians to ensure it runs as efficiently as possible and to hopefully prevent any inconvenient breakdowns. Taking care of your furnace makes it more likely to 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 ensure the best operation for many winters to come.

Change the Filter on a Regular Basis

The filter captures dirt, pet hair and other airborne particles to prevent them from entering the system’s more sensitive components. Over time, the filter gets clogged with debris, limiting air circulation and causing your furnace to exert more effort. This extra wear and tear may cause furnace troubles and sometimes irreparable damage.

To keep things running smoothly, don’t forget to check and change the filter as needed, depending on how often you use the system and the type of filter you use.

Reduce Your Home’s Energy Loss

Another way to minimize your furnace’s overall workload is to take what steps you can to enhance your home’s energy efficiency. Proper insulation and other sealing accessories around windows and doors will keep heat from escaping, allowing your furnace to reach a comfortable temperature. When your furnace runs efficiently, it suffers less wear and tear, prolonging its lifespan.

Schedule Annual Preventative Maintenance

Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional supports your furnace’s long-term performance. During the appointment, a technician checks, services and otherwise tunes up the system for best performance. This preventative care helps identify small issues sooner rather than later, preventing costly breakdowns. A regular tune-up also improves efficiency, saving you more money on energy bills.

Tidy Up Around the Furnace

Keeping the space around your furnace uncluttered ensures better airflow. Make sure the area is cleaned regularly and well clear of hazardous materials. This avoids fire and similar safety risks, ensuring your furnace performs more efficiently.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

A smart thermostat allows you to truly fine-tune the heating in your home, with features like scheduling automatic setbacks when you’re away or in bed. This limits 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 unexpected utility spikes, don’t delay checking out these concerns. Even small problems can rapidly become more severe breakdowns. If left ignored, it could affect the total lifespan of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs can prevent further damage and keep your system better protected.

Ensure Balanced Airflow

Your furnace will only perform at its peak when the ventilation between supply and return vents is balanced. Blocking or closing more than 80% of your supply registers can result in excess strain or force your furnace to work itself too hard. 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 circulate warmth efficiently. 

Set Your Furnace to a Reasonable Temperature

Setting your thermostat above normal forces your furnace to work overtime, putting extra wear on the entire system. This increased workload results in extra wear and tear. To minimize this kind of gradual damage, set your thermostat to a reasonable temperature—for example between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. You can alternatively adjust the temperature by around 8-10° while you’re out of the house. These strategies cut costs and lessen any strain on your furnace. 

Invest in a Modern Furnace When the Time Is Right

If your furnace is old and breaks down more often, it may be time to consider a new model. Modern furnaces feature higher performance than ever while still reducing total power use. Although the pricetag may be higher than a repair, the smaller utility bills and increased efficiency make it a cost-effective, practical solution. 

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

Taking care of your furnace prevents breakdowns, maximizes efficiency and can even promote a longer service life. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing specializes in helping you maintain a warm and comfortable home. Our certified technicians deliver efficient, reliable service.

If it’s been a while since your last maintenance visit or if you’re seeking tailored tips to optimize your furnace, please contact us today!