How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Furnace and Avoid Breakdowns

Your furnace is working round the clock to keep your home at a warm, comfortable temperature all winter long. But, like any appliance, it should be given routine care from trained technicians to ensure it runs smoothly and to avoid any inconvenient breakdowns. Maintaining your furnace makes it more likely to last years longer, especially compared to one that is poorly maintained. It also means more affordable energy use!

Here are some useful suggestions to extend 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 dust, fur and other airborne airborne contaminants to prevent them from entering the system’s more sensitive components. Over time, the filter fills up with debris, restricting airflow and making your furnace to work harder. This unnecessary effort can lead to more problems and sometimes more serious issues.

To maintain efficient performance, remember to check and change the filter as needed, depending on total usage and the type of filter in place.

Reduce Your Home’s Energy Loss

Another way to minimize your furnace’s total workload is to take what steps you can to boost your home’s energy efficiency. Proper insulation and sealing around windows and doors will minimize any heat loss, allowing your furnace to reach a comfortable temperature. When your furnace runs efficiently, it suffers 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, the technician checks, cleans and otherwise optimizes the system for best performance. This preventative care helps identify small issues before they escalate, preventing costly breakdowns. A regular tune-up also reduces energy waste, lowering your monthly energy bills.

Tidy Up Around the Furnace

Keeping the area around your furnace clean promotes steady, unobstructed airflow. Make sure the area is cleaned regularly and not near any hazardous materials. This prevents fire hazards, ensuring your furnace performs more efficiently.

Use a Smart Thermostat

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

Fix Problems as Soon as You Notice

If you start noticing odd humming, uneven heating or unexpected utility spikes, don’t postpone looking into these red flags. Even small issues can gradually evolve into more severe situations. If left unchecked, it could affect the total lifespan of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs help avoid further damage and keep your system safe.

Maintain Proper Circulation

Your furnace will only operate at its best when the airflow between supply and return vents is balanced. Blocking or closing too many of your supply registers can result in heat buildup or force your furnace to exert more effort than it should. To help maintain good performance, make sure that your air vents are open and free from being blocked by any rugs. This allows your furnace to circulate warmth as intended. 

Choose Energy-Efficient Temperature Settings

Setting your thermostat above normal forces your furnace to work overtime, putting extra wear on the entire system. This added energy load results in extra wear and tear. To keep it running longer, set your thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature—ideally between 68-72° F. You can also adjust the temperature by a few degrees while you’re sleeping. These strategies reduce total heating expenses and reduce further stress on your furnace. 

Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Model

If your furnace is showing its age and requires seemingly constant maintenance, it may be time to replace it. Modern furnaces offer improved performance while reducing energy consumption. Although the pricetag may be higher than a repair, the total lifetime repair costs and better performance make it a smart choice. 

Trust Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Reliable Furnace Maintenance

Properly servicing 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 specializes in helping you maintain a comfortable home environment. Our licensed technicians offer prompt, reliable service.

If it’s been a while since your last heating tune-up or if you’re interested in tailored tips to strengthen your furnace, please contact us today!