You know the old saying that hindsight is 20/20? When it comes to a broken heater, this phrase couldn’t ring any more true. While a high-quality furnace should last up to 15 years, you could cut its lifespan by a third, simply by not regularly maintaining it.
So, to prevent an unexpected breakdown, follow these tips:
Schedule routine maintenance checks. Unfortunately, most people leave scheduling an appointment to the time when something goes wrong and the system completely breaks down. Needless to say, your furnace should be fully serviced by a professional at least once a year, in order to fix small issues (before they become huge problems). This should be done in the fall, shortly before you will be using your heater for a potentially long winter. While you can perform basic checks yourself, it is especially important to call in an expert who has the proper expertise to check all of the components in your system. Seasoned technicians will pick up on potential problems that you may miss, and will be able to offer you services to repair or replace any problem.
Change your filter. One of the easiest ways to protect your furnace is by replacing the filter regularly. Simple yet effective, changing the filter enables you to rid your indoor air of allergens, keep your utility bill in check and ensure that your furnace operates at its very best. If you’re unsure of the correct filter for your particular system, contact a professional for guidance.
Install a thermostat. Installing a programmable thermostat is an excellent way to extend the lifespan of your furnace. With a programmable thermostat, you can make sure that your furnace is not operating when it doesn’t need to be. Set your thermostat on a lower setting when you are not going to be home during the day, so that your furnace will not be undertaking extra work when no one’s home or at nighttime. Plus, you’ll save money on energy bills, too.
In addition to these steps, you can take other small measures to make sure your furnace operates at peak performance. These include making sure that windows and doors are shut whenever possible, and using draft excluders to stop the heat escaping from your home.
Schedule Furnace Maintenance
For your peace of mind, Clear the Air provides system inspections, seasonal maintenance and tune-ups for your heating unit. Our NATE-certified team is committed to protecting your investment, keeping your home and family safe, and helping you save money.
To learn more about the benefits of routine furnace maintenance or to speak with a team member, fill out our online form or call 832.224.5595 today!