Your furnace is something you probably don’t think a lot about. That is, until it breaks and you have to replace it. When a new furnace costs between $4,900 and $9,600+, you’ll wish you took the time to take care of the one you had so it didn’t break down in the first place.
Whether you just bought a new furnace or your furnace is 15 years old, it’s never too late to follow these tips. They will help you stay warm all season long without a surprise replacement from the repairman.
4 Ways to Take Care of Your Furnace So You Stay Warm All Season Long
Turn Down the Thermostat
The easiest thing you can do to put less stress on your furnace is to turn down the thermostat. Your furnace kicks on less the lower it is set, and the less it kicks on, the less hard it has to work.
Not only does turning down your thermostat preserve your furnace, but it can also save you money. Turning down your furnace by just one degree can lower your utility bill by three percent.
Replace Your Air Filters
Did you know your furnace has a filter that needs to be changed? Did you know it’s supposed to be changed at least once every 90 days, on average?
You may have to change your filters more often if:
- Your furniture gets dusty not long after cleaning
- Your furnace kicks on more often than you think it should
- The filter is gray and covered in dust before the 90 days are up
Check your filter once a month to see how long it takes to get grimy. Then, set an alarm on your phone so you never miss a replacement.
Keep Vents Clear
Your furnace can’t adequately heat your home if your interior vents are blocked, which means it will run more often. If the vents on the exterior of your home are clogged, it will run more often too. And the more often it runs, the quicker it will wear out.
Keep furniture clear of vents in your home and check on exterior vents at least once a year to make sure they are free of debris.
Know When Your Furnace Needs a Tune-up
It’s a good rule of thumb to have your furnace tuned up by a professional at least once a year, but how often your furnace needs to be maintained does depend on the type of furnace you have.
First, know if your unit is under warranty. If it is, you likely need yearly inspections. If it’s not under warranty and it’s under ten years old, a tune-up every other year may be enough. Ask your HVAC professional what they would recommend.
Don’t let an overworked, uncared-for furnace mean you have to shiver in the cold and dish out thousands for a new unit. Follow the tips on this list and you can make sure your furnace is in tip-top shape for many years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, maintaining your furnace is essential for a warm and efficient home. Firstly, adjusting your thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature can save you money while ensuring comfort. Secondly, regularly changing air filters improves air quality and furnace efficiency. Thirdly, keep vents unblocked to allow for smooth airflow, preventing your furnace from overworking. Lastly, scheduling professional tune-ups ensures your furnace operates optimally, extending its lifespan and reducing energy consumption.
By incorporating these practices into your furnace maintenance routine, you’ll enjoy consistent warmth, cost savings, and environmental benefits. These simple steps ensure your furnace remains efficient and reliable throughout the season, contributing to a comfortable and eco-friendly home environment.
