Although the inner workings of your residential heating system may seem like a mystery to you, there is a rhyme and reason behind every moving part in your setup. There is no need to sit back and wonder when the next problem might occur with your equipment. Instead, we recommend taking a proactive approach to your home’s heating solutions. Learning all that you can about how your heating unit functions and the ways to maintain it will help you take back control of your system’s overall lifespan. Consistent maintenance and proper care go a long way towards extending the life of your equipment. The initial effort is worth it, thanks to the impressive cost savings that come with each year of additional operation.
Continue reading for our comprehensive guide on how to extend the lifespan of your residential heating system and ensure your family’s comfort for years to come.
Air Filters and the Occasional Deep Clean
One of the simplest ways to improve your system’s lifespan is to regularly examine the air filter. Depending on your setup, you will either have to clean or replace the filter. The optimal timeframe for a switch-up depends on the type of filter currently in use. Typically, you will want to change it out at least every three months. To make sure you remember to do this consistently, create a reminder on your phone or with a post-it note.
Even with diligent air filter usage, debris will eventually build up within your system. To keep your equipment working efficiently, you will need to schedule a professional HVAC cleaning service to remove all the debris and dirt that can accumulate within your system. Try to schedule a deep cleaning once per year, especially if your heater is more than 10 years old.
Never Ignore New Sounds
It is fairly common for a heating system to start making strange noises all of a sudden. While you may be tempted to ignore them, especially if your unit appears to be working just fine, there is always an underlying reason behind any new sounds you hear. The smart course of action is to find and address the cause of the sound immediately. Rather than wait for an obvious issue to arise, you can handle the root cause while your device is still just giving off warning signs. This prevents undue wear and tear on your equipment, which will help it work as intended for that much longer.
Upgrade to a Modern Thermostat
Modern thermostats are highly programmable and allow you to set exact temperatures with ease. In addition to improving overall home comfort, taking control of the temperature allows you to reduce the strain on your heating system. Setting an appropriate temperature based on the current climate will reduce the number of cycles your machine will need to undergo. If you opt for a smart thermostat, you can even make changes directly from your phone app while you’re not even home. The diagnostic data provided by such apps is another effective way to identify underlying problems with your system as early as possible. All these thermostat benefits contribute to a longer, healthier life for your heating setup.
Zoned Heating Systems
When you notice that particular spots in your home prove more demanding than others, you can install zone controls to condition the areas in question independently. By selectively heating specific areas more intensely, you can maintain comfort in those regions without overworking your entire system. A well-placed zone control will reduce how long your equipment runs to maintain your desired temperature. Less runtime means your device will last that much longer as a result.
Maintaining Proper Water Pressure
If you have a water-based heating solution, your system expects the flow of water to stay at a consistent pressure during operation. Problems such as poor circulation or airway binding will eventually occur if pressure goes too high or too low. Each issue will make your system work harder and wear out that much faster. Since water pressure issues are difficult to detect with the naked eye, your best bet is to schedule regular pressure testing with a professional. It is better to detect an early issue with a pressure test than to wait for a potential disaster later on.
Stay on Top of Your Air Ducts
Your ventilation ducts act as conduits to transport conditioned air throughout your home. If there is dust and debris in the ductwork, it may become airborne, mix with the filtered air, and exit through the vents. Cleaning the ducts eliminates these contaminants that pose a health risk for occupants and interfere with the airflow. A steady supply of clean air keeps the whole system moving along as intended and reduces stress on the system. Schedule a professional duct cleaning at least once a year to ensure this vital component of your heating system remains in good repair.
Don’t Skimp on Insulation
Insulation material is a highly effective means of stabilizing the temperature in your home. Placing some in areas that struggle to maintain your thermostat’s setting will help reduce strain on your heater. If you already have a lot of insulation placed in a troublesome spot, consider upgrading to a newer material with an augmented thermal barrier. When you are unsure about where to put insulation in your home, consult a professional for optimal placement strategies. You will know your insulation is doing the trick when your energy costs for the month noticeably decrease despite similar usage habits.
Seasonal Checkups
If you can only spare one time a year for critical heating system maintenance, then make sure you clear your calendar in the fall. Right before winter weather arrives is the ideal time to test your equipment and ensure your heater is in good working order. Professional evaluations are comprehensive and include checking the electrical connections, safety controls, heat exchangers, deep cleaning the system, and so much more. If no problems are detected, your home is set for the frigid months ahead. If an issue is spotted, then you will know exactly how to prepare before the seasons change. In either case, your heater will thank you by remaining operational for that much longer.
Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. is a family-owned and -operated business proudly serving Nashua and the surrounding communities of the Lakes Region. With 30 years of extensive experience in heating and cooling, we happily serve both residential and commercial buildings. Our exceptional service has maintained a 4.9 out of 5-star rating after over 4,000 Google reviews.
Whether you need assistance with heat pumps, boilers, furnaces, or another heating project, you can rest assured due to our 24/7 emergency service and unyielding work ethic. We will be happy to work on a custom solution that suits your home’s exact heating needs. Be sure to ask us about our maintenance plan!
For the absolute best residential heating services in Nashua, NH, give Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. a call today!
