6 Tips to Extend the Life of Your Furnace
The chilly months from late fall to early spring put constant pressure on home heating systems. Learning how to extend your furnace’s lifespan can save you money and keep your home warm on the coldest days.
As your trusted emergency plumber and HVAC contractor, Countryside Plumbing & Heating, Inc. shares six proven strategies to boost your furnace’s efficiency and longevity.
1. Yearly Furnace Maintenance
Regular maintenance stands as the cornerstone of keeping your furnace running smoothly and efficiently for years. A yearly tuneup by a qualified HVAC technician is vital. This service includes a thorough inspection, cleaning and adjustment of your furnace to ensure it operates at peak performance. Scheduling this service in the autumn, before the heavy usage of winter sets in, can mean the difference between a season of warmth and an unexpected breakdown.
2. Prompt Repairs
If your furnace shows signs of trouble—such as difficulty starting, short cycling, strange noises, or a sudden rise in energy bills—addressing the issue right away is important. Small problems can quickly turn into major ones, leading to cold nights and potentially dangerous situations, like gas or carbon monoxide leaks. If you’re concerned about new furnace cost, consider opting for immediate repairs to prevent further issues.
3. Mind Your Thermostat
Upgrading to a programmable thermostat or a smart thermostat can significantly impact your furnace’s efficiency and lifespan. By only running your heating system when needed—such as before you arrive home from work—you reduce unnecessary wear on the furnace. A smart thermostat also lets you adjust your home’s temperature remotely, ensuring you’re never heating an empty house.
4. Duct Maintenance and Sealing for Efficient Operation
Ensuring your home’s ductwork is sealed and in good repair is another vital step in extending the life of your furnace. Leaks in ducts can lead to up to 30% of energy loss, forcing your furnace to work harder and decreasing its lifespan. Regular inspection and repair of ductwork, especially in older homes, can improve both furnace efficiency and home comfort.
5. Proper Air Filtering
Regular replacement of your furnace’s air filter is one of the easiest yet most overlooked ways to improve your furnace’s efficiency and prolong its life. A clogged filter restricts airflow, making the furnace work harder to circulate warm air. This added strain not only reduces efficiency but can also lead to overheating and premature failure of furnace components. Don’t forget to check your filters monthly during peak usage times and replace them as needed, typically every 30 to 90 days.
6. Home Insulation
Improving your home’s insulation, particularly in the attic and around windows and doors, can offload a significant amount of work from your furnace. Proper insulation keeps warm air inside and cold air outside, reducing the need for your furnace to operate continuously. This is especially important if temperature swings in your area can be extreme.
Turn to Countryside Plumbing & Heating, Inc. if you need maintenance services or plan to upgrade to a high-efficiency furnace. Reach out to us at (715) 246-2660 or fill out our contact form for an appointment.
