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 does best with regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly and to avoid any inconvenient breakdowns. Taking care of your furnace can help it last years longer, especially compared to a neglected system. It also means lower energy bills!

Here are some practical tips to extend the lifespan of your furnace and keep it running more efficiently for many years to come.

Replace the Filter Regularly

The filter traps dust, pet hair and other airborne particles to keep them out of the system’s more sensitive components. Over time, the filter gets clogged with debris, restricting airflow and forcing your furnace to work harder. This added strain can lead to overheating and sometimes permanent system damage.

To keep things running smoothly, check and replace the filter around every 1 to 3 months, depending on total usage and the type of filter you use.

Invest in Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Another way to reduce your furnace’s overall workload is to take what steps you can to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Proper insulation and sealing around windows and doors will reduce heat loss, making it easier for your furnace to maintain a comfortable temperature. As long as your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard, it experiences less wear and tear, extending its lifespan.

Schedule Annual Preventative Maintenance

Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional helps promote your furnace’s long-term performance. During the appointment, your technician inspects, cleans and otherwise tunes up the system for best performance. This preventative care helps identify small issues before they escalate, avoiding costly repairs. Regular maintenance also improves efficiency, lowering your monthly energy bills.

Tidy Up Around the Furnace

Keeping the space around your furnace clear promotes better airflow. Make sure the area is clean and well away from flammable materials. This prevents fire hazards, ensuring your furnace circulates more effectively.

Install a Programmable 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 cuts back on run time, saving energy and helping preserve the system.

Address Any Repairs Immediately

If you notice unusual noises, uneven heating or higher energy bills, don’t wait to check out these signs of trouble. Even small issues 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.

Ensure Balanced Airflow

Your furnace will only operate at its best when the airflow between supply and return vents is balanced. Blocking or closing more than 80% of your supply registers can cause overheating 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 furniture. This enables your furnace to distribute heat as intended. 

Set Your Furnace to a Reasonable Temperature

Setting your thermostat too high forces your furnace to work overtime, putting unnecessary strain on the entire system. This constant demand leads to reduced efficiency. To avoid cutting your furnace’s lifespan short, set your thermostat to a reasonable temperature—such as between 68 and 72 degrees F. You can also adjust the temperature by 8 to 10 degrees while you’re away. These simple changes save energy and prevent any excess wear on your furnace. 

Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Model

When your furnace is old and needs more frequent repairs, it may be time to upgrade. Modern furnaces offer improved performance while reducing energy consumption. Although the initial investment may be higher than a repair, the long-term savings and better performance make it worthwhile. 

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

Taking care of your furnace prevents breakdowns, maximizes efficiency and can even promote a longer service life. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is committed to helping you maintain a comfortable home environment. Our licensed technicians provide fast, reliable service.

If it’s been a while since your last maintenance visit or if you’re looking for more personalized advice to strengthen your furnace, please contact us today!