From your car and your boat to the lawnmower, you probably perform regular service on all of your engines. Oil changes and tune-ups are required on things like your boat and car to keep the engine running smoothly. Similarly, HVAC manufacturers suggest annual furnace maintenance to take care of your system and keep it in working order. Like your car, your furnace can take a beating over an extended period of use and requires regular service and attention.
Many homeowners live by the rule that if something isn’t broken, it shouldn’t be fixed. Aside from changing air filters and keeping foliage away from outdoor equipment, they often don’t pay attention to their HVAC system unless something goes wrong. While basic tasks like changing air filters are essential for your equipment, they aren’t enough to keep your furnace performing optimally.
From safety concerns to energy efficiency, there are many reasons why you shouldn’t neglect the furnace in your home. Many HVAC companies offer annual maintenance plans to help you properly care for your furnace every fall. Let’s take a look at the importance of regular furnace service.
Safer Equipment
Among the leading causes of house fires in the United States is faulty heating equipment. Many issues that can create fire hazards or other safety problems don’t immediately interfere with the operation of the equipment. As a result, unfortunately, these problems often go unnoticed until it’s too late. Throughout regular service, issues with wiring and heat exchangers can develop within your system quietly. Frayed wiring or loose connections could create fire hazards that can threaten your home.
Additionally, cracked heat exchangers can cause a reaction that creates carbon monoxide leaks in your home. If undetected, carbon monoxide can create serious health problems for your family. Annual maintenance will catch and address any problems with your equipment before it poses a danger to your home or family.
Equipment Longevity
/hot-water-heater-and-furnace-in-basement-86517326-580e190f5f9b58564c5b36bf.jpg)
On average, your furnace could last 15 to 20 years. With annual maintenance and proper care, you might be able to extend the life of your system by up to 30 percent. However, when homeowners neglect their equipment, they could be looking at a unit replacement in as early as 10 years. Depending on your location, winters can be very taxing on your furnace as it works to combat outside conditions and temperatures. As a result, small issues like minor cracks, leaks, and worn components can develop. While many of the issues are minor problems, if they are left unresolved, they can stress your equipment and impact the health and longevity of your system.
Improved Comfort
As your system ages, it will become slower and less efficient. This is largely due to worn components and dirty systems. Higher energy bills, poor airflow, and inconsistent temperatures can all be signs that your system isn’t running at peak efficiency. Regular service, however, can help to keep your system running as efficiently as possible. A professional technician will thoroughly inspect, clean, and tune-up your furnace. This service will help you maintain efficiency, airflow, and comfortable temperatures throughout your home if done regularly.
Additionally, half of your energy bills can likely be attributed to your heating equipment during the winter. If your system is inefficient and struggles to heat your home, it will require more energy. As a result, you experience higher than normal utility bills throughout the winter. Furnace maintenance can help with the comfort and energy use in your home.
Your furnace is the workhorse that provides for your comfort all winter long. When it is freezing outside, you’ll want to have peace of mind knowing that your furnace will work. Regular furnace maintenance and attention will ensure that your equipment is safe and reliable all winter.
