The Ultimate Guide to Furnace Maintenance
Why It’s Important and What You Can Do
When the temperatures drop, your furnace becomes the unsung hero of your home, keeping your family warm and comfortable. But like any essential system, your furnace needs regular maintenance to operate at its best. In this guide, we’ll discuss why furnace maintenance is vital and share practical tips to prepare your heating system to run efficiently all winter long.
Why Furnace Maintenance Matters
Voided Warranty
Most HVAC manufacturers require regular maintenance services at least once a year to keep your warranty of the equipment active. It is usually stated in the user manual and most homeowners are completely unaware of this. Even if you it comes with the standard 10 year warranty, the manufacturer is not required to honor it without proof of service.
Improved Efficiency
A well-maintained furnace uses less energy, which translates to lower utility bills. Dirt, dust, and neglect can force your system to work harder, consuming more energy over time.
Extended Lifespan
Regular care can add years to your furnace’s life. Replacing a furnace is a significant investment, and routine maintenance can help you avoid premature replacements.
Enhanced Safety
Furnaces that are not properly maintained can develop dangerous issues, such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide emissions. Annual inspections can identify and resolve these risks.
Consistent Comfort
A poorly maintained furnace may struggle to heat your home evenly. Keeping your system in top condition ensures every room stays cozy, no matter how cold it gets outside.
Fewer Repairs
Small issues left unchecked can become major problems. Regular maintenance helps identify and address minor faults before they lead to costly breakdowns.
Here are some furnace tips you can follow
While professional HVAC technicians should handle in-depth service, there are several steps you can take to keep your furnace running smoothly:
Change Your Air Filters Regularly
Dirty air filters restrict airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder. Replace filters every 1–3 months, especially during peak heating seasons. You can purchase these filters from anywhere and they aren’t very expensive either. Some thermostats like the Ecobee even has a subscription program that auto orders your specific filters and reminds you when to change them out so you never have to think about it again. Technology is great!
Check the Thermostat
Test your thermostat to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for improved energy efficiency. These thermostats have the ability to set smart schedules to optimize your energy use. You can even receive rebates if you follow PG&E’s suggested schedules during the peak seasons when electricity is most expensive!
Monitor for Strange Noises or Smells
Unusual sounds or odors could indicate a problem. Mold could be accumulating on your coils causing poor indoor air quality as well as a decreased efficiency with your system. Don’t ignore these warning signs—contact a professional if you notice anything unusual.
Inspect and Clean Vents and Ducts
Ensure that all vents and registers are unobstructed by furniture or debris. Vacuuming dust from vents can improve airflow and indoor air quality. For a more extensive approach, you can get your ducts cleaned. This contributes to better air flow and indoor air quality.
Check Your Attic For Insulation Needs
If you are noticing that heat is escaping too quickly and your furnace is cycling often, it could mean that your home is not equipped with insulation to keep either cold or hot air in your home. This results in higher energy consumption.
Check Your Windows and Doors
If your windows and doors are not sealed, hot or cold air can escape quite easily costing you efficiency which equals money.
Schedule Your Annual Professional Furnace Maintenance
Even if you are determined to fix any issues yourself, there is a reason why HVAC contractors must earn a C-20 license to work on this equipment. Even more, most HVAC distributors do not sell to the public because of safety and liability concerns.
We know that you can buy just about anything online, but if you are not equipped to diagnose and repair your furnace, you might be putting yourself at risk. You might be putting your system at risk of needing more repairs. Lastly, you might be voiding your warranty because you wanted to save $75 on maintenance.
We can ensure your system is running efficiently and safely. Plus, it is not very expensive to get us out to your home. We tend to run specials before the peak seasons to set you up for a comfortable Winter.
Final Thoughts On Preventative Maintenance
Furnace maintenance is an essential part of homeownership. By taking simple steps to care for your system and scheduling regular professional check-ups, you can save money, increase your furnace's lifespan, and enjoy a warm, worry-free winters.
Ready to schedule your furnace maintenance? Contact the experts at Kendrick Heating and Air today for reliable service and peace of mind!
Need HVAC Service?
Contact the experts at Kendrick Heating and Air.
Call us at 916-252-4822!