How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Furnace and Avoid Breakdowns

Your furnace works hard to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long. But, like any appliance, it benefits from consistent upkeep to ensure it runs smoothly and to hopefully prevent any inconvenient breakdowns. Taking care of your furnace ensures it lasts years longer, especially compared to a neglected system. It also means lower energy bills!

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

Change the Filter on a Regular Basis

The filter traps debris, animal dander and other airborne particles to stop them from reaching the system’s more vulnerable components. Over time, the filter fills up with debris, restricting airflow and causing your furnace to operate less efficiently. This added strain can lead to overheating and sometimes irreparable damage.

To keep things running smoothly, don’t forget to check and change the filter on a regular basis, depending on your heating habits and the type of filter in place.

Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Another way to reduce your furnace’s potential workload is to take what steps you can to boost your home’s energy efficiency. Proper insulation and other sealing accessories around windows and doors will minimize any heat loss, making it easier for your furnace to hold a comfortable temperature. As long as your furnace operates more easily, it suffers less wear and tear, extending its lifespan.

Schedule Yearly HVAC Tune-Ups

Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional supports your furnace’s overall health. During the appointment, the technician inspects, cleans and otherwise tunes up the system for best performance. This regular preventive maintenance spots small issues sooner rather than later, preventing costly failures. A regular tune-up also reduces energy waste, cutting your monthly heating costs.

Tidy Up Around the Furnace

Keeping the space around your furnace uncluttered ensures airflow and safe operation. Make sure the area is kept dust-free and well clear of flammable materials. This avoids any safety issues, ensuring your furnace circulates more smoothly.

Consider Trying 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 in bed. This reduces operating time, lowering your energy bill and helping preserve the system.

Don’t Put Off Furnace Repairs

If you notice unusual noises, stubborn cold spots or higher energy bills, don’t wait to check out these signs of trouble. Even small problems can quickly evolve into more severe breakdowns. If left unchecked, it could shorten the lifespan of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs can prevent further damage and keep your system safe.

Keep All Vents and Registers Unblocked

Your furnace will only function best when the ventilation between supply and return vents is well-regulated. Blocking or closing more than 80% of your supply registers can lead to excess strain or force your furnace to work harder. To help keep things running smoothly, regularly check that the air vents are open and free from being blocked by any rugs. This enables your furnace to circulate warmth properly. 

Set Your Furnace to a Reasonable Temperature

Setting your thermostat beyond energy-efficient levels forces your furnace to work overtime, putting excess stress on the entire system. This increased workload causes extra wear and tear. To avoid cutting your furnace’s lifespan short, set your thermostat to a reasonable temperature—ideally between 68-72° F. You can alternatively adjust the temperature by around 8-10° while you’re sleeping. These simple changes save energy and reduce further stress on your furnace. 

Invest in a Modern Furnace When the Time Is Right

If your furnace is outdated and requires seemingly constant maintenance, it may be time to consider a new model. Modern furnaces provide the best in heating technology while reducing energy consumption. Although the pricetag may be higher than a repair, the total lifetime repair costs and increased efficiency make it a cost-effective, practical solution. 

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

Taking care of your furnace reduces the risk of malfunctions, enhances its day-to-day operation and can even promote a longer service life. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing takes pride in helping you enjoy a comfortable home environment. Our licensed technicians provide 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 optimize your furnace, please contact us today!