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5 Tips To Optimize Your Furnace Efficiency

February 12, 2024
Posted in: Homeowner Tips

Winter is here, and it’s time to make sure your furnace is working efficiently to keep you warm and cozy. In cold regions like Canada, your furnace is an extremely important piece of equipment that helps you get through the winter season comfortably, so make sure you have a well-maintained furnace to beat the winter chills. Here are five tips to optimize your furnace efficiency and save on energy bills.

Replace The Air Filter

One of the easiest ways to optimize your furnace efficiency is to replace the air filter regularly. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and make your furnace work harder, leading to increased energy consumption and higher bills. Check the filter every month and replace it every three months or more often if you have pets or allergies.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your furnace running efficiently and prevent costly breakdowns. Without proper furnace maintenance, it may encounter various issues. Among the most frequent furnace problems are dirty filters, regular wear and tear, insufficient or no heat production, thermostat malfunctions, and so on.

Hire a professional HVAC technician to inspect and tune up your furnace every year before the winter season. The technician can clean the furnace, check the electrical connections, and run a series of operational tests such as manifold pressure and temperature rise. This will enable the technician to identify any issues that could affect the performance of your furnace and potentially arrange to repair minor issues before a major failure occurs.

Use A Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can help you optimize your furnace efficiency by reducing energy waste when you’re away from home or sleeping. Set the thermostat to lower the temperature by a few degrees when you’re not home or at night, and raise it back when you’re back home or awake. This can save you up to 10% on your energy bills without sacrificing comfort.

Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork can cause drafts and make your furnace work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Seal the leaks with caulking or weatherstripping to prevent heat loss and improve furnace efficiency. You can also hire a professional contractor to conduct a home energy audit and identify areas of air leakage that require sealing.

Upgrade Your Furnace

If your furnace is more than 15 years old, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient model. Newer furnaces are designed to be more energy-efficient and can save you up to 30% on your energy bills. Look for a furnace with a high Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating, which measures the amount of heat produced by the furnace compared to the amount of fuel consumed. An AFUE rating of 90% or higher is considered highly efficient.

In conclusion, optimizing your furnace efficiency is essential to keep your home warm and comfortable during the winter season while saving money on energy bills. Replace the air filter regularly, schedule annual maintenance, use a programmable thermostat, seal air leaks, and consider upgrading your furnace if it’s old and inefficient. These tips can help you maximize the performance of your furnace, and ensure a cozy and energy-efficient winter. Connect with Taunton Trades at 905-493-4227 or mail to mail@tauntontrades.com to schedule an inspection with our HVAC specialists serving Durham & the GTA. 

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