6 Tips for Making a Furnace Last Longer in McLean, VA
Most homeowners in McLean, VA want their furnaces to last as long as possible as envisioned by the manufacturer. However, many furnaces do not see their 15th year due to common issues and poor maintenance. Below are six effective ways to extend the lifespan of your furnace.
1. Routine Maintenance
The best thing you can do for your heating system is routine preventive maintenance. This will ensure that your furnace is running at its best and that technicians identify any potential issues before they cause serious damage. A qualified professional will clean and inspect your heating system’s parts, test the pilot light, calibrate the thermostat and change the filter.
2. Don’t Ignore Strange Noises
Your furnace should operate smoothly without any strange noises. If you start hearing peculiar banging, popping or squealing noises coming from your heating system, it could be a sign of a serious problem. These noises could indicate loose parts in the heating system or an obstructed exhaust pipe.
If you ignore these noises, you’ll set the stage for a worse problem that could eventually lead to a complete system breakdown. So, if you hear any strange noises coming from your furnace, schedule a furnace repair as soon as possible.
3. Keep Your Furnace Clean
One of the most important things you can do to extend the lifespan of your furnace is to keep it clean and maintained. Dust and dirt can build up on the parts of your heating system, making it work harder than necessary and causing it to wear out faster. To keep your heating system clean, vacuum around it regularly and wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.
It would be best if you also had a professional clean your heating system every few years to remove any build-up that you can’t reach. Clogged heating system filters can also restrict airflow and cause your heating system to overwork, so be sure to change them as often as necessary.
4. Don’t Use It As Storage
Your furnace is not a storage space for boxes, bags or other items. Storing things on or around your heating system can make it harder for the heat to circulate properly, causing your heating system to work harder than necessary. Not only does this put unnecessary stress on your heating system, but it can also be a fire hazard.
Keep your furnace area clear of any storage items to allow proper airflow and reduce fire risks. Reduced airflow around a heating system causes the motor to work harder and lower its lifespan.
5. Upgrade Your Thermostat
If your furnace is more than a few years old, it’s likely that your thermostat isn’t as energy efficient as newer models. Upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat can help you save money on your energy bill and reduce the wear and tear on it. A new thermostat will help your heating system last longer by reducing the required work.
6. Install New Insulation
Insulation helps to keep the heat in your home and can prevent your furnace from working overtime. If you don’t have enough insulation, heat can escape through the walls and ceilings, causing it to run more often than necessary. Look at your attic, crawl space and walls to see if you need more insulation.
You likely need more insulation if you can see any exposed pipes or wires. The amount of insulation you need will depend on the climate you live in and your home type. Once you know how much insulation you need, you can install it to help extend the lifespan of your furnace.
If you want your furnace to last longer, our team will identify any areas that need improvement and work with you to get it running as efficiently as possible. Schedule a consultation with Vernon The Heating & Cooling Specialist to check your furnace installation or any furnace repair needs you may have. We’ll maximize your furnace’s performance and make sure it runs efficiently.
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