Furnace repairs are often necessary to restore comfort and efficiency to your home or business, especially after a system breakdown or age-related issues. However, once your furnace has been repaired, there are additional steps you can take to ensure that it operates as efficiently as possible, saving energy and reducing utility costs. Furnace efficiency doesn’t only depend on the repair itself but also on the overall maintenance and adjustments you make moving forward.
At Advanced Cooling, we understand how important it is to get the most out of your heating system after a repair. Since 2001, we’ve been helping homeowners and businesses in Texas and Oklahoma stay warm and comfortable through expert furnace repairs and maintenance. Here are some simple steps to improve furnace efficiency after a repair.
Change the Air Filter Regularly
One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to ensure your furnace operates efficiently is to replace the air filter regularly. A clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow, causing your furnace to work harder than necessary. This can lead to higher energy consumption and premature wear and tear.
Tip: Change the air filter every 1-3 months, depending on your furnace’s usage and the type of filter. Homes with pets or allergies may need to change their filters more often.
Ensure Proper Thermostat Settings
After a furnace repair, it’s important to double-check your thermostat settings. If your thermostat is improperly calibrated or placed in a poor location, it can cause inefficient heating.
Tip: Set your thermostat to the most energy-efficient temperature (usually around 68°F during the winter). Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, saving energy when you’re away.
Seal Leaks and Gaps Around Ductwork
Even after a repair, leaks and gaps in your ductwork can cause heated air to escape, reducing your furnace’s efficiency. Leaky ducts can result in significant energy loss and uneven heating throughout your home.
Tip: Inspect your ductwork for visible gaps or holes, and seal them with mastic sealant or metal-backed tape. Consider having a professional conduct a ductwork inspection to find hidden leaks.
Perform Routine Maintenance
Furnaces need ongoing maintenance to stay in optimal condition. After a repair, don’t wait until another issue arises before scheduling your next maintenance check. Routine maintenance helps prevent future breakdowns and ensures your furnace continues to operate at peak efficiency.
Tip: Schedule a professional tune-up annually to clean, inspect, and adjust your furnace. This helps identify potential issues before they become major problems.
Clear the Area Around the Furnace
The area around your furnace should be clear of obstructions to allow for proper airflow and ventilation. Items like furniture, boxes, or dust buildup can block vents, making it harder for your furnace to circulate warm air throughout your home.
Tip: Make sure there are at least three feet of clearance around your furnace. Keep vents and registers unobstructed to promote good airflow.
Install or Upgrade Insulation
Inadequate insulation can cause heat to escape through the walls, attic, and floors, leading to unnecessary strain on your furnace. Improving the insulation in your home can help maintain a more consistent indoor temperature and reduce the workload on your furnace.
Tip: Insulate areas that are prone to heat loss, such as attics, basements, and exterior walls. Proper insulation can reduce your furnace’s workload and improve energy efficiency.
Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Warm Air
Ceiling fans are often associated with cooling, but they can also help with heating. By running ceiling fans in a clockwise direction during the winter, you can help distribute warm air more evenly throughout your home. This reduces the demand on your furnace and ensures that heated air doesn’t accumulate at the ceiling.
Tip: Set your ceiling fans to a low speed and reverse the direction to push warm air down from the ceiling.
Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Furnace
If your furnace is old or inefficient, upgrading to a high-efficiency model can provide significant long-term savings. Modern furnaces are designed to use less energy while maintaining the same level of comfort.
Tip: Consider replacing your furnace with an ENERGY STAR® certified model. While this requires an initial investment, the energy savings over time will make the upgrade worthwhile.
Check and Maintain the Blower Motor
The blower motor circulates air throughout your home, and if it’s not functioning properly, it can affect the overall efficiency of your furnace. After a repair, ensure that the blower motor is running smoothly.
Tip: If you notice strange noises, reduced airflow, or uneven heating, have your HVAC professional inspect the blower motor for issues. Keeping it well-maintained will prevent costly repairs down the road.
Consider Zone Heating
If you have multiple levels or large rooms, zone heating might be a good option. By installing separate thermostats in different zones of your home, you can heat only the areas you’re using, reducing the overall demand on your furnace.
Tip: Zone heating is particularly useful for larger homes or homes with multiple floors, as it allows you to manage energy consumption and improve overall furnace efficiency.
Conclusion
After a furnace repair, it’s essential to follow these tips to improve efficiency and prevent future problems. Simple actions like replacing air filters, ensuring proper insulation, and scheduling regular maintenance can extend the life of your furnace and lower your heating costs.
At Advanced Cooling, we’re here to help you with all your furnace needs, from repairs and upgrades to ongoing maintenance. If you’ve recently had a furnace repair or need advice on improving your system’s efficiency, give us a call today. We’re dedicated to providing professional, friendly, and affordable HVAC services to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable year-round.
Advanced Cooling is the premier choice for HVAC services in Texas and Oklahoma. With a team of highly trained and certified technicians, we have the expertise to handle all of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched, and we always go above and beyond to ensure that your experience with us is positive. We use only the highest quality parts and equipment to ensure that your HVAC system is running at peak performance. Plus, we offer competitive pricing and flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Choose Advanced Cooling for all of your HVAC needs in Texas and Oklahoma.
