Your home’s furnace is crucial to keeping you comfortable during the cold winter months, and you want to avoid replacing the entire system, as this is a costly home improvement project. That’s why many homeowners work to prolong the life of their HVAC system. Here are a few tips to keep your furnace in good shape. 

How to Make Your Furnace Last Longer

1. Replace the Filters

Through regular use, the filters become clogged with dust, dirt, and debris, limiting air flow throughout the system. This forces the furnace to work harder than it should, shortening its life span and increasing your energy bills. Every 90 days, replace the old ones with a new set. However, if you have pets, smoke, or have allergies, replace them every 60 days.  

2. Insulate Your Home

The system will need to work harder than it should if warm air is allowed to seep out of the home. Make sure your insulation is well-maintained, including in the attic and basement. Also, if you haven’t already, insulate your water heater, and seal any doors with a draft. In the winter months, use temporary solutions like window weatherstripping and heavy curtains in front of the windows to trap in the heat.

3. Don’t Obstruct the Vents

Blocking the vents reduces the system’s ability to move air throughout the home efficiently. Thus, keep all furniture away from the vents and registers, and clean them out regularly to remove any built-up dirt and debris.

4. Install a Smart Thermostat

This helps to limit unnecessary usage, which will prolong the life of the furnace. You can schedule the system to provide more moderate heating when you’re not at home or asleep. Not only does this keep the system operating longer, but it also helps to lower monthly utility bills.

 

For more help prolonging the life of your furnace, schedule regular maintenance with the experts at Steve’s Plumbing & Heating in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Their heating and cooling technicians have the experience needed to provide a professional inspection of your entire system. If they see any issues that are limiting its efficiency, they have the tools and knowledge needed to fix it quickly and reliably. Schedule an appointment by calling (715) 421-1800, or learn more online.