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 unescapable wear and tear over the years will cause some impact on your furnace’s efficiency, the main 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 working as it should and potentially save some money on your utility costs.

At Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc., we recommend annual furnace maintenance. At all of our visits, we will inspect your furnace for any probable problems and recommend repairs if they’re needed. We’ll also ensure your furnace is clean and make any necessary adjustments. An important part of a clean furnace is a clean air filter. While our experts will replace the 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 on a monthly basis. 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 instance, if you have pets, you may need to change your air filter more regularly than someone who doesn’t. By assessing 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 notice improved air quality in addition to an increase in furnace efficiency. You could also lengthen 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 professionals at Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc..

Your heating and cooling system is responsible for approximately half your home’s energy usage, so having an efficient furnace is critical. At Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc., we can help confirm your furnace is running at peak efficiency. Call us today to schedule your annual furnace maintenance at 803-265-4208.