10 Ways to Keep Your Furnace Efficient This Winter

Making a few small changes can help ensure your furnace runs more efficiently this winter, saving you money on your energy bill. Follow these 10 tips and you’ll be in good shape. Whether you’re using a traditional furnace or a newer model, these tips will help you get the most out of your system.

1. Check your furnace filters monthly and replace them as needed.

One of the most important things you can do to maintain your furnace is to check the filter monthly and replace it as needed. A clean filter helps your furnace run more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bill. It also prolongs the life of your furnace by preventing dust and dirt from building up on the coils and other components.

2. Keep the area around your furnace clean and free of debris.

Another way to ensure your furnace runs efficiently is to keep the area around it clean and free of debris. This includes vacuuming or sweeping up any dust, dirt, or pollen that has accumulated near the furnace. It’s also important to clear away any flammable materials, such as newspapers or rags, that might be stored too close to the furnace.

3. Schedule an annual furnace tune-up with a qualified technician.

To keep your furnace running at its best, it’s important to have it serviced by a qualified technician on an annual basis. During a furnace tune-up, the technician will inspect all of the major components and make any necessary adjustments. This will help ensure your furnace is running as efficiently as possible, which can save you money on your energy bill.

4. Check the furnace’s flame sensor and clean it if necessary.

The furnace’s flame sensor is responsible for detecting whether or not the furnace’s burner is lit. If the sensor is dirty, it may not be able to properly detect the flame, which can cause the furnace to cycle on and off unnecessarily. To clean the sensor, simply remove it from the furnace and use a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated on it.

5. Adjust the furnace’s thermostat to a lower temperature setting.

During the winter months, you can save money on your energy bill by setting the furnace’s thermostat to a lower temperature. This will cause the furnace to run less often, which will help prolong its life and keep it running more efficiently.

6. Replace your furnace’s air filter every three months.

To ensure your furnace is running as efficiently as possible, it’s important to replace the air filter every three months. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the furnace to work harder than necessary to heat your home.

7. Inspect the furnace’s blower belt and replace it if necessary.

The furnace’s blower belt helps move air through the furnace’s cooling coils. Over time, the belt can become worn or damaged, which can cause the furnace to work harder than necessary to circulate air. If you notice the belt is damaged, it’s important to have it replaced by a qualified technician.

8. Keep the furnace’s vents and registers clear of obstructions.

To ensure your furnace is running efficiently, it’s important to keep the vents and registers clear of any obstructions. This includes furniture, carpets, or any other items that might block the airflow.

9. Check the furnace’s pilot light and make sure it’s lit.

If the furnace’s pilot light goes out, the furnace will no longer be able to heat your home. To check the status of the pilot light, simply look through the glass window on the front of the furnace. If you see a blue flame, the pilot light is lit and the furnace is working properly. If you don’t see a flame, the pilot light has gone out and you’ll need to relight it.

10. Install a programmable thermostat to save money on your energy bill.

A programmable thermostat can help you save money on your energy bill by allowing you to set specific times for the furnace to turn on and off. This way, you can make sure the furnace is only running when you need it, which can help prolong its life and keep it running more efficiently.

If you follow these 10 tips, you can help keep your furnace running efficiently all winter long. By taking care of your furnace and keeping it maintained, you can save money on your energy bill and prolong the life of your furnace. If you have any questions about furnace maintenance or need to schedule a furnace tune-up, be sure to contact a qualified technician in your area.