The lifespan of a furnace can vary from 15-30 years depending on its fuel source and other factors. A furnace that is operating efficiently is under less strain, and this can maximize its longevity. There are several things that you can do to improve your furnace’s efficiency and help it last longer.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Annual professional furnace maintenance offers several benefits. It allows HVAC technicians to identify any small problems in your system before they become more serious. Technicians can also make adjustments and replace any worn parts so that you get the best performance from your system.
Clean or Change the Filter
The type of filter you have, whether it needs cleaning or changing and how often you have to do it vary based on your furnace type. Make sure that you understand what your furnace needs. Filters maintain the quality of the air circulating throughout your home, but they’re also important for your furnace’s longevity. A furnace with a dirty filter has to work harder, and this can wear out components and shorten its lifespan.
Consider a Smart or Programmable Thermostat
A furnace that runs frequently will wear out more quickly than one that runs less often. This doesn’t mean that you should suffer through discomfort when it’s cold in order to preserve your heating system. It does mean that identifying when you don’t need the furnace and ensuring that it’s not running during those times may help it last longer. A smart or programmable thermostat can be the best way to do this. You can set a schedule and then forget about it.
Many smart thermostats have additional useful features that can help you reduce overuse as well. Some can help you identify your own usage patterns and make automatic adjustments. You may also be able to adjust your thermostat remotely, which is helpful if you’re away and have forgotten to change it accordingly.
Winterize Your Home
Another way to keep your furnace from working harder than it should is to keep cold air out of your home and warm air in. While improving insulation is one way to do this, there are also simple and inexpensive solutions. For example, draft stoppers can block air going in and out under doors. Weatherstripping is another solution for more airtight doors and windows.
Keep Nearby Areas Clear
Keep the area around your furnace and all registers clear. Closing multiple registers throughout your home can make the system work harder than is ideal. Clutter around the furnace or vents has a similar effect.
A new furnace is an expensive item. Spending a little money on tune-ups, filters and other maintenance now can mean substantial savings in the long run. By taking good care of your furnace, you may be able to add years to its lifespan. When you need furnace maintenance services in Phoenix, AZ & Tucson, AZ, contact Alaskan AC.