Your furnace creates warmth and comfort over the cold winter months, but it can also be a major drain on your budget. Without knowing it, you may be unnecessarily burning money in your furnace because of how you’re using it. Consider these five common habits that could be wasting your money and what you can do to correct them.
1. Neglecting the Furnace Filter
The furnace filter protects the internal components from airborne contaminants that can interfere with the equipment and reduce its efficiency. However, neglecting the filter and allowing it to remain in place once clogged reduces airflow through the system, driving up energy consumption and accelerating wear. To prevent this, plan to check your filter monthly and expect to change it periodically. Smaller 1- or 2-inch filters typically need replacement every 30 to 90 days, while larger ones may last longer.
2. Closing or Blocking Vents and Registers
Your furnace relies on air flowing into and out of the system to effectively heat your home. Some people close supply vents in areas they don’t use frequently. Additionally, furniture and other things may block vents. In either case, this restricts airflow, preventing heated air from distributing throughout your residence. Keep all supply vents open, and keep at least 6 inches clear around each one. Your return vents may need more clearance, depending on their size. Check with your maintenance technician for the proper recommendation.
3. Ignoring Small Problems
It’s easy to ignore small problems, especially when it seems your furnace is keeping your home fairly comfortable. However, these little issues drive up your energy consumption through longer heating cycles, and they accelerate the need for repairs.
If you notice small problems, work to resolve them quickly to keep your system running efficiently:
- Frequent cycling
- Long heating cycles
- Increasing energy bills
- Strange noises or bad odors
- Less air or heat flowing from supply vents
4. Nursing an Aging System
Most furnaces have an expected life span of 15 to 20 years when properly maintained. As the system ages, you can expect it to lose efficiency, require more frequent repairs, and incur higher costs. Once the system reaches about 15 years, start planning your replacement to take advantage of off-season savings and avoid the cost of inefficient operation.
5. Continually Operating Without Maintenance
Getting the most from your furnace requires annual maintenance. Ignoring this will eventually lead to accelerated wear and increased energy consumption. Ideally, plan for furnace maintenance every fall to keep your system running efficiently through the entire heating season.
Don’t let improper use or furnace neglect drain your wallet. Call to schedule a furnace repair or maintenance visit in the Newnan, GA area with one of our expert technicians at E Dennis AC Inc.