For most homeowners, winter weather means they rely on their heating system to keep the house comfortable. However, raising the thermostat to take the chill out of the air uses more energy, and as winter wears on, those energy bills can quickly skyrocket. Worse, all that use can put serious wear and tear on your heating system, forcing you to schedule a furnace repair appointment when you least expect it. The more efficient you can make the system, the better off you’ll be. Here are a few simple ways to boost the system’s efficiency and lower your operating costs.

3 Ways to Improve Your Furnace’s Efficiency

1. Seal the Windows

Windows are a major source of heat loss in the winter. With increased insulation, less heat will escape through the glass. Seal the windows with an insulating film or cover them at night with heavy curtains to block the cold. This will keep the weather outside from influencing the temperature of the room and helps keep your furnace from working harder than necessary to maintain a set temperature.

2. Schedule a Tuneup

Often, minor furnace repair issues can make the entire system run less efficiently. Stay on top of those maintenance issues by scheduling a tuneup with your HVAC contractors. They will inspect the system for damage and fix minor problems before it breaks down.

3. Replace the Furnace Filters

The furnace pulls air from outside the house, heats it up, and distributes the fresh air throughout the home. However, outdoor air is often filled with contaminants like dust, allergens, and dirt. These contaminants get caught in furnace filters. Over time, the filters get so dirty that the furnace has to work harder to send heated air through the system. This can take a huge toll on your energy bills. Instead, replace the filters at least once every three months, and check them for buildup once a month.

Worried about your furnace’s efficiency or want an expert to take a look at the system? Contact the furnace repair professionals at Jaenke Heating & Air Conditioning in Waterloo, IL. For more than 40 years, their experienced team has helped residents keep their homes comfortable no matter what the weather outside is like. Learn more about their HVAC repairs and services online, and call (618) 939-8029 to schedule an appointment.