How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Furnace and Avoid Breakdowns

Your furnace is working round the clock to keep your home nice and warm all winter long. Still, just like with other mechanical systems, it should be given regular maintenance to ensure it performs its best and to reduce the risk of any inconvenient breakdowns. Taking care of your furnace can help it last years longer, especially compared to one that is poorly maintained. It also means reduced heating costs!

Here are some useful suggestions to prolong the lifespan of your furnace and keep it running more efficiently for many years to come.

Replace the Filter Regularly

The filter captures dust, pet hair and other airborne allergens to stop them from reaching the system’s more sensitive components. Over time, the filter becomes blocked with debris, obstructing ventilation and forcing your furnace to exert more effort. This extra wear and tear may cause more problems and sometimes more serious issues.

To keep things running smoothly, check and swap out the filter on a regular basis, depending on total usage and the type of filter in place.

Reduce Your Home’s Energy Loss

Another way to reduce your furnace’s overall 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 reach a comfortable temperature. As long as your furnace operates more easily, it experiences less wear and tear, increasing its lifespan.

Schedule Yearly HVAC Tune-Ups

Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional supports your furnace’s reliable operation. During the appointment, your technician inspects, services and otherwise tunes up the system for best performance. This proactive service helps identify small issues before they become something more serious, avoiding costly failures. Regular maintenance also reduces energy waste, lowering your monthly energy bills.

Maintain a Clean Space Around the Furnace

Keeping the area around your furnace clear encourages better airflow. Make sure the area is cleaned regularly and not near any hazardous materials. This prevents fire hazards, ensuring your furnace performs more smoothly.

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 not home or in bed. This limits run time, saving energy and helping preserve the system.

Don’t Put Off Furnace Repairs

If you notice unusual noises, temperature inconsistencies or unexpected utility spikes, don’t wait to check out these concerns. Even small issues can rapidly become more severe breakdowns. If left ignored, 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 circulation between supply and return vents is evenly distributed. Blocking or closing the majority of your supply registers can result in heat buildup or force your furnace to exert more effort than it should. To help prevent any issues, regularly check that the air vents are open and free from being blocked by any furniture. This allows your furnace to circulate warmth properly. 

Set Your Furnace to a Reasonable Temperature

Setting your thermostat above normal forces your furnace to work overtime, putting excess stress on the entire system. This constant demand results in extra wear and tear. To avoid cutting your furnace’s lifespan short, set your thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature—ideally between 68-72° F. You can alternatively adjust the temperature by around 8-10° while you’re away. These simple changes cut costs and lessen any strain on your furnace. 

Consider Replacing an Old Furnace

If your furnace is showing its age and requires seemingly constant maintenance, it may be time to consider a new model. Modern furnaces offer the best in heating technology while still reducing total power use. Although the upfront cost may be higher than a repair, the long-term savings and better performance make it worthwhile. 

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

Maintaining your furnace reduces the risk of malfunctions, maximizes efficiency and can even promote a longer service life. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing specializes in helping you keep a comfortable home environment. Our licensed technicians provide fast, trustworthy service.

If it’s been a while since your last furnace tune-up or if you’re seeking more personalized advice to strengthen your furnace, please contact us today!