How Does Furnace Maintenance Impact the Energy Efficiency of Your Home?

January 12, 2018

Do you know that your furnace can lose efficiency over time? While inevitable wear and tear over the years will impact your furnace’s efficiency, the leading culprit when it comes to furnaces losing efficiency is lack of maintenance. Making sure you schedule ongoing maintenance is the best way you can keep your furnace working as it should and potentially save some money on your utility costs.

At 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., we recommend annual furnace maintenance. At all of our visits, we will evaluate your furnace for any probable problems and recommend repairs if they’re needed. We’ll also make sure your furnace is clean and make any necessary adjustments. An important part of a clean furnace is a clean air filter. While we’ll always change your air filter during furnace maintenance, you can help keep your furnace efficient by take a look at the air filter during the year.

ENERGY STAR® recommends changing your air filter monthly. Your filter may need to be replaced more or less frequently, depending on your filter type, your system and your home’s environment. For instance, if you have pets, you may need to change your air filter more often than someone who doesn’t. By looking at your filter every month, you’ll begin to figure out how often you should change it. Air will run more freely through your home when you have a clean filter. You’ll notice improved air quality in addition to an increase in furnace efficiency. You could also extend the life expectancy of your furnace by keeping its filter clean. That’s because your furnace needs to run so much harder when you have a dirty air filter and that puts unnecessary wear and tear on its components.

Another item that could impact your furnace’s efficiency is leaking ductwork. If your ducts have any leaks, holes or poor connections, it’ll be harder for your system to efficiently deliver air within your house. And even though your furnace will be operating overtime, you still may not be as comfortable as you expect to be. If you are concerned how well-sealed your ducts are, ask our experts at 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc..

Your heating and cooling system is responsible for about half your home’s energy usage, so having an efficient furnace is critical. At 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., we can help ensure your furnace is running at peak efficiency. Give us a call to schedule your annual furnace maintenance at 949-204-0859.