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

January 12, 2018

Do you know that your furnace can lose efficiency as time goes on? While unescapable wear and tear over the years will have some effect on your furnace’s efficiency, the leading culprit when it comes to furnaces losing efficiency is lack of maintenance. Ensuring you have regular furnace maintenance performed is the best way you can keep your furnace running as it should and potentially save some money on your energy bills.

At Strine's Heating & Air Conditioning, we suggest annual furnace maintenance. At each visit, we will evaluate your furnace for any potential problems and recommend repairs if they’re needed. We’ll also confirm 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 checking and replacing it throughout the year.

ENERGY STAR® recommends changing your air filter every month. You may need to change it more or less frequently, depending on your filter type, your system and what your indoor environment is like. For example, if you have pets, you may need to change your air filter more frequently than someone who doesn’t. By looking at your filter every month, you’ll get a feel for how often to replace the filter. Air will flow more freely through your indoor space when you have a clean filter. You’ll see 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 has to work so much harder when you have a dirty air filter and that puts preventable wear and tear on its components.

Another thing that could decrease 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 throughout your home. And even though your furnace will be running 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 Strine's Heating & Air Conditioning.

Your heating and cooling system is responsible for approximately half your home’s energy usage, so having an efficient furnace is critical. At Strine's Heating & Air Conditioning, we can help ensure your furnace is operating at peak efficiency. Give us a call to schedule your annual furnace maintenance at 717-383-4479.