How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Furnace and Avoid Breakdowns

Your furnace works tirelessly to keep your home at a warm, comfortable temperature all winter long. Still, just like with other mechanical systems, it benefits from consistent upkeep to ensure it runs smoothly and to reduce the risk of any inconvenient breakdowns. Maintaining your furnace can help it last years longer, especially compared to a neglected system. It also means reduced heating costs!

Here are some useful suggestions to prolong the lifespan of your furnace and maintain peak performance for many winters to come.

Replace the Filter Regularly

The filter traps dust, animal dander and other airborne airborne contaminants to keep them out of the system’s more sensitive components. Over time, the filter gets clogged with debris, restricting airflow and making your furnace to exert more effort. This added strain can lead to furnace troubles and sometimes more serious issues.

To avoid those kinds of problems, remember to check and change the filter around every 1 to 3 months, depending on your heating habits and the type of filter you use.

Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Another way to lessen your furnace’s overall workload is to take what steps you can to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Proper insulation and other sealing accessories around windows and doors will reduce heat loss, making it easier for your furnace to hold a comfortable temperature. Whenever your furnace operates more easily, it experiences less wear and tear, increasing its lifespan.

Keep Up with Routine HVAC Maintenance

Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional helps promote your furnace’s reliable operation. During the appointment, the technician examines, cleans and otherwise tunes up the system for best performance. This preventative care helps identify small issues before they escalate, preventing costly repairs. A regular inspection also reduces energy waste, saving you more money on energy bills.

Maintain a Clean Space Around the Furnace

Keeping the area around your furnace clear encourages better airflow. Make sure the area is kept dust-free and well clear of hazardous materials. This avoids fire and similar safety risks, ensuring your furnace performs more smoothly.

Consider Trying a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat gives you more control than ever in your home, with features like scheduling automatic setbacks when you’re away or asleep. This limits run time, cutting costs and helping preserve the system.

Fix Problems as Soon as You Notice

If you start noticing strange sounds, temperature inconsistencies or rising heating costs, don’t wait to check out these signs of trouble. Even small problems can quickly develop into more severe situations. If left unresolved, it could reduce the overall service life of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs can prevent further damage and keep your system running.

Maintain Proper Circulation

Your furnace will only function best when the ventilation between supply and return vents is balanced. Blocking or closing too many of your supply registers can lead to 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 curtains. This allows your furnace to move air efficiently. 

Avoid Overworking Your Furnace

Setting your thermostat beyond energy-efficient levels forces your furnace to run way too much, putting extra wear on the entire system. This constant demand causes reduced efficiency. To avoid cutting your furnace’s lifespan short, set your thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature—for example between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also adjust the temperature by 8 to 10 degrees while you’re asleep or on a trip. These adjustments reduce total heating expenses and lessen any strain on your furnace. 

Invest in a Modern Furnace When the Time Is Right

When your furnace is showing its age and requires seemingly constant maintenance, it may be time to consider a new model. Modern furnaces feature the best in heating technology while reducing energy consumption. Although the pricetag may be higher than a repair, the long-term savings 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, improves long-term performance and can even ensure a long service life. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing takes pride in helping you enjoy a complete sense of comfort. Our certified technicians offer prompt, trustworthy service.

If it’s been a while since your last furnace tune-up or if you’re looking for customized recommendations to maximize your furnace, please contact us today!