To keep your furnace running as smoothly as possible, it’s important to follow home furnace maintenance best practices. Here are the simple steps you should follow to take care of your furnace and ensure your home stays cozy all year long.
Change the Filter Regularly
Regularly changing your furnace filters is crucial. These filters play a vital role in maintaining optimal indoor air quality, and preventing the spread of airborne illnesses and allergens. As dirt and dust accumulate on filters over time, their effectiveness in purifying the air diminishes. Additionally, your furnace is forced to exert more effort to push and pull air through clogged filters. This results in increased energy costs and less uniform air temperatures throughout your home. Fortunately, changing air filters is a simple task that you can easily do yourself.
How often you should change your filter depends on the type of furnace you have and the size of filters it uses. See the manufacturer’s instructions for details on when and how to change your filters.
Change Thermostat Batteries Every Year
Every year in the early fall, just before the colder season starts, you should replace your thermostat batteries. Having fresh batteries in your thermostat ensures you won’t wake up in the cold on a winter morning because your thermostat is inactive and hasn’t initiated your furnace.
Alongside changing the batteries, reprogramming your thermostat is equally important. Customize a schedule that aligns with your routine during colder weather. For instance, if you prefer a warmer home when you wake up, set the thermostat to activate 20 minutes before your usual waking time. If you’re away during the week, program the thermostat to maintain a lower temperature and then raise it when you typically return. This practice conserves energy, reduces strain on the furnace, and ultimately saves you money.
Thermostats vary among manufacturers, each with its own unique programming method. If your thermostat lacks a programming function, especially in the case of older models, consider upgrading for added benefits. Refer to your thermostat manual for specific instructions on how to program it.
Check the Vents Regularly
Be sure to check your furnace vents regularly and clean out any debris or blockages. If your vents get clogged, it’s more difficult for hot air to get through and heat your home, which can result in a less comfortable space and a higher heating bill because your furnace will be working harder.
Don’t Skip Annual Furnace Maintenance Appointments
It is important to have your furnace serviced by a professional once a year. They will conduct a thorough inspection of all components of the furnace, checking for any issues and cleaning the parts to keep everything running smoothly. Regular professional maintenance will catch any minor problems with your furnace so you can repair them before they become major, costly issues later.
Get in touch with John Sadler Plumbing & Heating today to book your yearly furnace service.
