Installing a new heating system in your home is expensive. Fortunately, your furnace can serve you for well over a decade when it’s well taken care of. Below are ways you can lengthen your furnace’s life span in Lake Forest, IL.
Avoid DIY Repairs
Always hire experienced professionals to do all your unit repairs. If you decide to diagnose and fix the problem, you are endangering your property and shortening your heating system’s life span. Any errors will compromise the efficiency of your system.
In extreme circumstances, DIY fixes cause serious issues that can break the unit. Experts should handle all your repairs because they undergo proper training and field practice for certification. Moreover, they have the necessary tools to get the job done.
Clean/Replace Clogged Filters
Filters are either reusable or for one-time use. It would be best to frequently check the condition of the filters, especially if you have pets, and replace them when necessary. This is because debris and dirt gradually build up on filters, causing clogs.
Blockages reduce airflow, pressuring the furnace to work harder, which can cause a breakdown in a short period. Clean and replace the filters to ease the strain and prompt the system to last longer. It’s one of the cheapest and easiest methods to boost the longevity of your unit.
Upgrade to a Smart/Programmable Thermostat
The longevity of a unit depends on how often and how long it runs. Several elements, such as outdoor temperatures, might cause your furnace to run for extended periods.
To mitigate the effect, install a programmable thermostat. This thermostat can automatically change the temperatures according to your preferred settings. It helps to effectively manage the unit and use it less frequently to ensure it lasts longer.
Insulate Your Home
Attic insulation is essential if you want to lengthen your system’s life expectancy. It’s one way to ensure your furnace functions more efficiently with less effort. With poor insulation, thermal energy escapes from your home, forcing the unit to work harder to maintain temperatures.
For efficiency, ensure experienced professionals do the insulation. You may also choose cheaper options, like sealing cracks and outlets to prevent leaks. Also, ensure windows and door openings are tightly closed.
Take Care of the Condenser
The condenser is part of your system that’s outside. Although it can hold up to adverse weather changes, you must periodically check on it. An improperly functioning condenser negatively impacts the system’s ability to heat your home, resulting in an uncomfortable environment.
Moreover, lack of care and maintenance causes internal blockage. As a result, the condenser overheats and might burn out, thus lessening its life expectancy.
Ensure this unit is clean and protected. Hire an expert immediately after a heavy storm to inspect it for rust and other visible damage. In addition, remove all the debris and weeds around the outdoor unit.
Make Use of the Auto Setting
Usually, a heating system has two operating modes. “On” means that the fan is constantly on and blowing the air even if the unit is not heating. When set to “auto”, the fan only turns on when it’s heating.
It would be best to use the auto mode as much as possible. You will lower energy consumption and consequently reduce electricity expenses. In addition, constant running causes intense wear and tear, which is avoidable using the auto setting.
Regular Maintenance
Although a furnace is relatively low-maintenance equipment, it does requires annual tune-ups. By doing so, you’ll not only increase your system’s life expectancy but also its efficiency. Experts recommend that you schedule routine maintenance at least once a year.
Furthermore, they recommend planning for tune-up during fall as it is the most appropriate time. It’s not ideal to get stuck with cold temperatures without an option to heat your home in the winter. During the tune-up, the technician will thoroughly inspect the system to ensure it’s properly functioning.
If you want to increase your heating unit’s life span, we’re the go-to company. Our NATE-certified technicians have the knowledge and experience to care for all your heating needs. Contact Ireland Heating & Air for maintenance and repair services in Lake Forest, IL or a neighboring city.
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