How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Furnace and Avoid Breakdowns

Your furnace is working round the clock to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long. But, just like with other mechanical systems, it benefits from 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 left alone. It also means more affordable energy use!

Here are some practical tips to maximize the lifespan of your furnace and maintain peak performance for many winters to come.

Replace the Filter Regularly

The filter blocks dirt, animal dander and other airborne particles to stop them from reaching the system’s more vulnerable components. Over time, the filter fills up with debris, limiting air circulation and making your furnace to operate less efficiently. This unnecessary effort can lead to overheating and sometimes more serious issues.

To avoid those kinds of problems, don’t forget to check and replace the filter as needed, depending on your heating habits and the type of filter you use.

Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Another way to reduce your furnace’s total 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 keep heat from escaping, allowing your furnace to reach a comfortable temperature. Whenever your furnace operates more easily, it suffers less wear and tear, increasing its lifespan.

Keep Up with Routine HVAC Maintenance

Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional ensures your furnace’s long-term performance. During the appointment, your technician examines, services and otherwise optimizes the system for best performance. This regular preventive maintenance detects small issues before they become something more serious, preventing costly repairs. A regular tune-up also reduces energy waste, saving you more money on energy bills.

Keep the Area Near Your Furnace Clear

Keeping the space around your furnace clear encourages airflow and safe operation. Make sure the area is clean and well clear of hazardous materials. This avoids any safety issues, ensuring your furnace circulates more smoothly.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

A smart thermostat lets you set precise temperatures in your home, with features like scheduling automatic setbacks when you’re not home or sleeping. This cuts back on run time, cutting costs and helping preserve the system.

Address Any Repairs Immediately

If you start noticing strange sounds, uneven heating or unexpected utility spikes, don’t postpone looking into these signs of trouble. Even small issues can quickly evolve into more severe breakdowns. If left ignored, it could shorten the lifespan of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs can prevent further damage and keep your system running.

Ensure Balanced Airflow

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 excess strain or force your furnace to work itself too hard. To help keep things running smoothly, regularly check that your air vents are open and free from being blocked by any furniture. This enables your furnace to distribute heat efficiently. 

Avoid Overworking Your Furnace

Setting your thermostat above normal forces your furnace to work overtime, putting excess stress on the entire system. This constant demand causes extra wear and tear. To keep it running longer, set your thermostat to a seasonally appropriate temperature—for example between 68-72° F. You can alternatively adjust the temperature by 8 to 10 degrees while you’re asleep or on a trip. These strategies reduce total heating expenses and lessen any strain on your furnace. 

Consider Replacing an Old Furnace

If your furnace is outdated and needs more frequent repairs, it may be time to upgrade. Modern furnaces feature higher performance than ever while still reducing total power use. Although the pricetag may be higher than a repair, the long-term savings and increased efficiency make it a smart choice. 

Rely on Rob's Albertan Service Experts to Maintain Your Furnace’s Health

Taking care of your furnace avoids any premature, costly failures, maximizes efficiency and can even ensure a long service life. Rob's Albertan Service Experts takes pride in helping you enjoy a warm and comfortable home. Our experienced technicians provide prompt, trustworthy service.

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