How to ensure a longer lasting furnace
During colder seasons, your furnace becomes one of the most-used appliances in your home. And because it keeps your family warm and comfortable, it is imperative that it stays fully functional for as long as optimally possible. Simple, common-sense preventative measures can go a long way to ensuring that your furnace lives a long, relatively stress-free life.
On average, furnaces are expected to last 20 years. You can definitely stretch that average another five to ten years with proper, consistent maintenance, and smart usage. From proper installation to regular upkeep, here are some of the key services to consider for maximizing your furnace’s lifespan.
Are you installing a new furnace? If you’re planning to do the installation yourself, be aware that HVAC installations require specialized tools, equipment, independent testing, experience for the job, and a building permit. There’s a saying in the HVAC business, and for very good reason: the most important day in your HVAC system’s life is the day it’s installed.
Working with a licensed contractor minimizes the risk for errors in the process that could potentially damage or compromise the functionality and life of your heating unit. Be sure your installation contractor holds a C-20 (Warm Air Heating) license, the proper liability and worker’s compensation insurance, and obtains a building permit from your city.
Always replace or clean the filter
One of the most important parts of a furnace is the filter system. The filter’s job is to remove dust, dirt and grime so it’s easily one of the dirtiest components of your HVAC system. As that build-up accumulates over time, the filter can get clogged.
A clogged filter will cause your furnace to work harder because of decreased airflow. Decreased airflow will force other parts of your furnace to kick into high gear, causing unnecessary wear and tear – and likely causing higher utility bills. For most homes, changing the filter twice per year – before you turn your heat on in Fall and again in the spring before you turn on the AC – is a good practice. Some homeowners use Daylight Savings changes as a reminder to change their HVAC filters, so they don’t forget. If you live in an especially dusty or smoke-filled area (think California wildfires!), consider changing the filter more often.
Check fans and vents
Furnaces have venting systems and fans that also need regular attention. Keeping all components clean helps your HVAC unit perform at its best. If you are unsure about what needs cleaning, get assistance from a licensed HVAC professional.
Sign up for maintenance services
Have you set up a regular maintenance plan with your trusted HVAC company? If your answer is no, then now may be the best time to give them a call. Annual furnace maintenance does more than lengthen the life of your furnace; it also ensures the comfort and safety of your family.
Furnaces produce heat by burning fuel. Regular maintenance monitors both the safety and efficiency of the combustion process. A minor problem in your furnace—a crack in the material, a loose bolt, a weak spot in the construction—may lead to a gas leak. This, as you can guess, is an extreme health hazard.
You’re also exposing your home to the risk of carbon monoxide leaks if you neglect your furnace. Carbon monoxide is harder to detect as the gas is odorless and colorless. Regular annual furnace maintenance allows a technician to identify and correct safety risks before they turn into big problems, and also ensures your furnace is operating at its peak performance.
Don’t wait for an emergency before having your HVAC system checked by an expert. If you want to know more about furnace repair or other HVAC services, call Superior Mechanical Service today. Our team of professionals can provide you with everything you need for your furnace all year round, from simple repairs and tune-ups to emergency repairs and complete system replacements.
