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License #1107541
As winter approaches, homeowners rely heavily on their heating systems to keep warm and comfortable. However, without proper maintenance and efficiency measures, your furnace can become an energy guzzler, leading to skyrocketing bills. Optimizing furnace efficiency not only reduces energy costs but also prolongs the life of your heating system.
In this article, you’ll learn about the actionable tips that help you maintain a cozy home while keeping your expenses in check.
Your furnace’s filters play a vital role in maintaining air quality and system efficiency. Over time, they accumulate dust, debris, and allergens, becoming clogged filters. This restricts airflow, causing your furnace to work harder than necessary. To gain maximum efficiency, replace the filter after 3 months during peak season. For better indoor air quality, opt for a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. For a clean reusable filter, always call a professional and let them handle the task. Avoid following the DIY approach.
Routine furnace maintenance service by professionals ensures your furnace is running at peak performance. These experts can identify and resolve minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs or system failures. By hiring HVAC experts, you can improve energy efficiency through proper calibration. They are well-equipped to identify potential hazards such as gas leaks or exposure to carbon monoxide. Its ultimate result is a prolonged furnace lifespan and improved efficiency. It is recommended to call professional tune-ups before the peak season to avoid unusual breakdowns.
Your thermostat plays a crucial role in regulating your home’s temperature and controlling energy consumption. A programmable or smart thermostat can help you save on heating costs by adjusting temperatures based on your schedule. For energy efficiency, set the thermostats at a lower rate at night or when you’re away from home. You can also use a zoned system to heat specific areas of your home rather than the entire house. You can also upgrade the thermostats by using WiFi-enabled thermostats that give you the opportunity to set the temperature online.
Heat loss through cracks and poorly insulated areas can cause your furnace to work overtime to maintain the desired temperature. Enhancing attic insulation and sealing gaps around windows, doors, and vents can make a noticeable difference. To avoid the causes of heat loss, use weatherstripping or caulk around windows and doors. Install or upgrade insulation in your attic, as heat rises and escapes through poorly insulated spaces. Regularly check the ducts and seal them if you notice any gaps between the components. By taking precautionary measures, your furnace operates more efficiently and consumes less power.
Dry air during winter forces your furnace to work harder, as moisture helps retain heat. A whole house humidifier balances indoor humidity levels, making your home feel warmer without cranking up the thermostat. The desired indoor humidity level is 30% to 50% and the humidifier enables you to achieve the desired comfort. Due to excessive dryness, cracks start to appear on both furniture and floors, so it’s important to install a humidifier to prevent dryness and improve respiratory rinus caused by dry air.
If your furnace is over 15 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Modern furnaces are designed with energy efficiency in mind, boasting features like variable-speed motors and sealed combustion chambers. Install a furnace that has a higher AFUF rating (more than 80%) and is compatible with a zoned system for better control. Though upgrading requires an initial investment, the long-term savings on energy bills and reduced maintenance costs make it worthwhile.
A clean furnace operates more efficiently, as dirt and debris can impede airflow and reduce the effectiveness of key components. Vacuum around the area of the furnace to remove dust and debris and avoid the chances of dust buildup. Regularly inspect the blower motor and heat exchanger. Keep the vents and register free from obstructions such as rugs, furniture, or windows. Keeping the furnace clean and away from dust enhances appliance efficiency and reduces the cost of energy.
Small changes in daily habits can have a big impact on energy consumption. Adopting habits like closing the curtain during the night to retain the heat inside and open during the daytime to let the sunlight enter the room will help to keep your house warm and comfortable. Wear warm dresses indoors to reduce the dependency on the heater to keep yourself cozy. Use rugs on hardwood or tile floors to minimize heat loss.
A zoned system divides your home into multiple heating zones, allowing you to control the temperature in each area independently. Zoned systems eliminate energy waste while away from home or in spaces that are unused. A zone system is considered beneficial for large homes or spaces with varying heating needs by offering customized comfort for different areas and reducing the strain on the furnace.
Insufficient or deteriorating attic insulation is a common culprit behind heat loss. Ensuring proper insulation helps maintain indoor temperatures and reduces the burden on your furnace. Use fiberglass or spray foam insulation for maximum efficiency. Add extra layers if needed to meet recommended R-values for your region.
Improving furnace efficiency is all about combining smart practices with regular maintenance and upgrades. From replacing clogged filters to enhancing attic insulation and installing a whole house humidifier, these tips can make a significant difference in your energy consumption and heating costs.
To book furnace maintenance service, contact Xcel HVAC.
Signs include reduced airflow, uneven heating, higher energy bills, and visible dust accumulation on the filter.
Professional maintenance ensures your furnace operates efficiently, reduces the risk of breakdowns, and addresses the issue before it worsens.
The ideal humidity level is between 30% to 50%. Using a whole house humidifier can help maintain this range.
Proper attic insulation prevents heat loss, reducing the workload on your furnace and maintaining a consistent indoor temperature.
A zoned system heats specific areas of your home, avoiding unnecessary heating in unoccupied spaces.
