As the temperature drops here in Texas, some may be turning on their furnace for the first time this winter. To be able to get the most out of your furnace, do you know if it is energy efficient? Here are some ways you can check this:
Some of the advantages of energy-efficient furnaces are:
- Lower utility bills
- Noise-free/quiet operation
- Longer lifespan
- Better indoor climate control (Reduced temperature swings)
Filter Replacement
You have probably heard it a million times from HVAC companies, but it is recommended you change out your air filters regularly. You may think, “I just changed mine a few months ago, what is the harm in waiting?” If you wait too long, your dirty filter can slow down airflow, putting a strain on your furnace and leading to costly repairs. In order for your furnace to run at its best, be sure to change out the filter and give it the ability to breathe some fresh air.
Ensure your Thermostat Works Properly
Instead of waiting till it is the middle of winter, try turning your heater on a few times. If the heat does not start up right away, there may be an underlying issue. If you are using a manually controlled thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable one. This can let you program your furnace to turn on and off at specific times of the day, which allows for energy efficiency and reduces wear and tear, saving you from costly repairs.
How Old is your Furnace?
The average life expectancy of a furnace ranges from 15 to 20 years. This can fluctuate depending on if you are having regular maintenance, changing out your filter, and general usage of your furnace. Over time, your furnace will decline in efficiency simply from usage. If you are experiencing frequent breakdowns or higher utility bills, you may want to consider an upgrade to ensure peak efficiency.
Perform Maintenance/Clean Furnace
After a long Texas summer, the harmful buildup can appear on your furnace’s burners. Contact an HVAC professional today so they can check to make sure your furnace is working at its best and ensure you have a warm, cozy winter. It is better to be preventative than to end up with a broken furnace in the middle of the coldest days of the year.
Have more questions about whether your furnace is running at its more energy efficient? Simply call today and we can help with the answers you need.
No matter what happens, we are here for you at BVS Home Experts. We have experienced technicians standing by 24/7 (yes, even on holidays!) so that we can help you when a problem arises. Make sure your home is comfortable all year long. Contact BVS Home Experts today to restore your comfort.
Author Bio:
Ronald Via
Ronald is one of the key contributors to BVS Home Experts, a family-owned and operated full-service air conditioning and heating company serving the Katy and West Houston areas. With a deep understanding of air conditioning and heating concerns, Ronald brings a wealth of knowledge to our readers.
