12 Ways You’re Ruining Your Furnace

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Furnaces, like relationships, thrive on attention. It’s unfortunate that the silent workhorse that is your furnace is often treated like a neglected pet. Winter is approaching, and if you had forgotten about that big box in the basement or closet, it’ll remind you in not-so-warm ways.

If you’ve ever thought, “I’ll deal with it later,” you’re in good company. Many homeowners overlook regular maintenance of their furnaces, believing that a little dust here and there won’t hurt anyone. But neglecting to clean or replace filters can turn your efficient furnace into a struggling underdog.

This list will tell you if you’re slowly ruining your furnace.

1. Overlooking Regular Maintenance

Many homeowners are guilty of letting maintenance slide, assuming everything is fine because the furnace is running… for now. But neglecting to schedule routine inspections is like skipping your car’s oil change—you might get away with it for a while, but eventually, you’ll pay the price.

A professional can identify potential issues before they escalate, saving you from an unexpected winter meltdown. Regular maintenance is also an excellent excuse to connect with your heating technician, who will appreciate your proactive approach.

2. Ignoring Airflow Issues

You wouldn’t try to breathe through a straw, so why would you let your furnace struggle with blocked vents? It’s a common mistake to think that closing off vents in unused rooms will save energy. In reality, it can create pressure imbalances and force your furnace to work harder.

You will not be saving a few bucks. In fact, you might end up shelling out more on repairs down the line. Be sure to keep vents and furniture clear of obstructions. This will allow for proper airflow and enhance your furnace’s efficiency.

3. Setting the Thermostat on a Whim

Many people have a love-hate relationship with the thermostat, constantly adjusting it like a DJ spins records. Frequent temperature changes might feel like you’re saving energy, but they place undue stress on your furnace.

These abrupt shifts require the unit to kick on and off more frequently, reducing its lifespan and efficiency. Instead of playing thermostat roulette, consider setting a consistent temperature and sticking with it. A smart thermostat can help automate this process, allowing for comfort without constant fiddling.

4. Using Your Furnace for Everything

While it’s tempting to use your furnace as an all-in-one solution for drying clothes as well as heating the house, this can lead to serious issues. Sitting a clothes rack of wet laundry in front of vents will make it harder for your furnace to do its job properly.

When overloaded with additional tasks, they can become inefficient or even damaged. Stick to using your furnace for its intended purpose. Consider using a clothes dryer if you need to dry clothes in the depths of winter.

5. Skipping the Duct Cleaning

Just like the rest of your home, your ducts need some TLC. Over time, dust, debris, and even the occasional critter can build up in your ductwork. Neglecting this can diminish air quality and cause your furnace to strain under the pressure of blocked passages.

Schedule duct cleaning every few years to maintain optimal airflow and efficiency. Your furnace—and lungs—will be grateful for the fresh air.

6. Forgetting to Seal Leaks

Drafts can be the difference between living in a comfortable home and shivering through winter in an icebox. If you’ve neglected to seal and insulate your house properly, your furnace will be working overtime to keep things warm. If you’ve noticed chilly spots near windows or doors, it’s time to address those leaks.

Ignoring air leaks is like leaving the front door wide open. Sealing those gaps with weatherstripping or caulk can significantly improve your home’s insulation.

7. Ignoring the Pilot Light

For those with older furnaces, the pilot light is a critical component that can’t be overlooked. If your pilot light is out, your furnace won’t operate efficiently, if at all. It’s easy to forget about this little flame, but a flickering or blown-out pilot light can sign bigger issues, such as gas supply problems or blockages.

Make it a habit to check the pilot light regularly. If it’s flickering, it might be time to call in a professional to troubleshoot.

8. Underestimating the Importance of Insulation

Insulation might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of furnace care, but it plays a pivotal role in maintaining warmth. Without proper insulation, your furnace will have to work harder to compensate for heat loss.

If your home isn’t insulated correctly, it’s like trying to fill a bucket with holes—frustrating and ultimately a waste of energy. Investing in good insulation keeps the heat where it belongs: inside your home.

9. Assuming Newer is Always Better

While modern technology can bring great improvements, assuming that a new furnace will solve all your problems is a common misconception. The latest model might have all the bells and whistles, but if your home isn’t ready for it, the investment could be wasted.

Not all homes are created equal, so before you splurge on the latest model, assess your current system and home layout. Sometimes, a little renovation or adjustment can work wonders, allowing your existing furnace to shine rather than simply swapping it out.

10. Disregarding the Flame Sensor

The flame sensor is a small but powerful component in your furnace. It guarantees that gas is only released when there’s a flame to ignite it. However, a dirty flame sensor can cause your furnace to shut down, leaving you in the cold.

To avoid this icy scenario, check and clean the flame sensor regularly. It’s a quick fix that can prevent frustrating heating issues.

11. Neglecting the Humidifier

A humidifier might not be the first accessory you think of when considering furnace care, but it can play a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable atmosphere. Dry air can lead to discomfort and even strain your furnace, making it harder to heat your home.

If your furnace has a built-in humidifier, don’t let it gather dust. Regularly check and maintain it to ensure optimal performance.

12. Forgetting to Check the Safety Switch

Many homeowners overlook the importance of the safety switch, which can be the difference between a functioning furnace and a winter nightmare. This little component prevents the furnace from operating when the door is open, protecting you from dangerous situations.

If you’ve ever found your furnace refusing to start, it might be time to check that the safety switch isn’t tripped. Make it a point to inspect the safety switch during your routine maintenance. A quick reset can get your furnace back in business.

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