There are far more compelling reasons to have your furnace cleaned regularly than simply keeping it looking nice. When you have a cleaner furnace, it will run more smoothly compared to a dirty one. Something as small as cleaning out the coils or even having the airflow filters replaced can actually make a significant change to your electrical bill.
Another important step in tuning up a furnace is to have the pilot system tested. When fuel doesn’t burn all the way, a yellow flame rather than blue is a signal that dangerous carbon monoxide buildup can occur, resulting in significant danger for anyone exposed. You can find out if your furnace is likely to emit this dangerous gas by contacting a certified professional.
Not only do check ups save you money on energy bills , they can also save money over the long haul by avoiding expensive repair bills. After all, if you don’t take care of your furnace, you’ll have to have it repaired more often. Inefficient components can make your furnace ineffective and more susceptible to wearing out quicker. Eventually, you’ll get to a point where parts are too expensive, making it more cost-effective to replace the unit.
While the furnace is typically out of a homeowner’s mind during non-winter months, it still needs to be given attention before the season starts to prevent it from breaking down during this time. A properly maintained furnace could last for as long as twenty years. You might even get thirty or fourty years of use out of your furnace, depending on your usage.
Having regular tune-ups will help you save money by avoiding expensive repairs, as well as lower your energy costs. Often, manufacturers will only cover the cost of repair or replacement if there is proof of regular servicing. While your furnace may be running smoothly now, having it tuned-up can save you money on costly repairs.
How should homeowners maintain their furnaces between tune-ups?
Furnaces usually require minimal maintenance between checkups, unless something breaks. However, there are some actions you can take to ensure your furnace will run efficiently for years to come.
One way to guarantee your furnace runs efficiently is to regularly change the air filter. Dirty filters can cause the airflow to slow down, which puts a strain on the mechanics, thereby making the furnace work much harder to produce the same results. If you have pets at home, it would be wise to change the air filter every 3 months. Filters help keep toxins, allergens, and other particles out of your home in order to maintain safe, breathable air in your home.
Homeowners who close off the vents in certain rooms in a mistaken attempt to conserve energy may be inadvertently putting unnecessary strain on their furnace, which can result in damage to the unit. In addition to this, when vents are closed, this can be the cause of mold growth in the ductwork. In the long run, a closed vent isn’t likely to save you any money as it could cause the furnace to wear out quicker.
Also, make sure the outdoor ventilation area is not obstructed by debris, such as animal nests, that restrict airflow. If your furnace is having issues running, check for any obstructions before calling a professional for repairs. The best time to check is when the seasons begin to change.
