If you’re dreading the winter because you’re bracing for higher heating costs, you’re not alone. Many homeowners worry about how much running their furnace will cost them.
Fortunately, with the help of some simple furnace care tips, you can reduce heating costs without sacrificing your home’s comfort. Here are five easy and fast ways to keep your furnace running efficiently at a fraction of the cost.
1. Don’t Neglect Your Filter
It’s mind-bogglingly simple, but that’s what makes it easy to forget — switching out your filter is one of the most effective furnace care tips that homeowners can do themselves.
Check your filters monthly, and aim to replace them every two or three months, depending on how often you use your furnace and what type of filter you have. This is truly the first thing you should do if you’re concerned about higher heating costs; it makes a world of difference.
2. Schedule Furnace Maintenance
Furnace performance is directly dependent on how well you maintain it. And without professional help, there’s no way to ensure your system operates at peak efficiency. It’s best to schedule your maintenance before the heating season to catch potential issues early on.
But even if you’re reading this well into the winter, there’s no wrong time to schedule maintenance, especially if it could save you from unexpected furnace repairs and high heating costs.
3. Check for Potential Areas of Heat Loss
Heat loss can make a dramatic change in your energy bills. Check your ductwork for gaps and cracks, and address them with sealant or duct tape. You should also consider insulating your ducts, especially if they’re in unconditioned spaces, like your attic.
If you aren’t sure how to handle any of this, don’t fret: a heating professional can recommend ways to address heat loss and inspect your home to see if any other areas need attention.
4. Try a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats are becoming more commonplace in homes now, and for good reason. They’re incredibly effective at managing your heating costs. You can set specific temperatures for different times of the day, so your furnace only kicks on when you need it.
You can also adjust settings to have the temperature get lower at night or when you’re away, which can translate to some significant energy savings.
5. Keep Your Vents Clear
Don’t let anything be in front of your vents. It seems like one of the smaller furnace care tips, but blocked vents restrict airflow and make your system work harder than it needs to.
If you have to, rearrange your furniture to get a good amount of airflow throughout your home. It’s a fun winter project, plus it allows for a more consistent temperature, so it’s a win-win.
Professional Furnace Care From Endless Energy
Even with these furnace care tips, issues with your HVAC can happen — and sometimes at the worst possible moments, like during a cold snap. Endless Energy is here when you need us, whether for routine maintenance or a complete system overhaul.
Contact our team today to learn more about what we offer and book your appointment.
