How to Maximize Furnace Efficiency

When the cold weather hits your home in Ohio, your furnace works overtime to keep your home comfortable on demand. If it’s not running at peak efficiency, you’ll start noticing some clues like spiking energy bills, uneven heating, and sudden breakdowns. We’ve got the tips you need to keep your furnace running reliably and extend the life of your HVAC in Akron Ohio.

Swap Out Your Air Filters

When your Akron furnace filters get clogged, your system works hard to push through the restricted airflow. You’ll notice it might take longer to warm up your home and your energy costs will go up. Make it a point to replace or clean your filters every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and filter type, to keep air moving freely. Cleaner filters also improve your home’s indoor air quality in Akron that improves both your home’s comfort and the functionality of your furnace.

Seal Your Leaks and Insulate

Even if your furnace is brand new and working flawlessly, you’ll experience heat loss if your home leaks air. Check around your windows, doors, and ductwork for any gaps. Adding weatherstripping, sealing duct joints, and upgrading insulation will keep the warm air your furnace produces inside of your home–where it belongs.

Program Your Thermostat (Or Upgrade)

Keeping an eye on your thermostat and lowering it at night or while you’re away reduces the strain on your furnace and decreases your energy bills. Even a two-degree adjustment can make a noticeable difference. 

As one of Akron HVAC companies we also offer smart thermostat installation to optimize the temperature in your home. With automated functionality, your thermostat can learn your habits and schedule and make minor adjustments on the fly to make the most of your heating and cooling. 

Stay On Top of Furnace Repairs

Strange noises, inconsistent heat, or frequent cycling are signs you may need Akron furnace repair. Ignoring these issues forces the system to work harder, which accelerates wear and raises utility costs. Quick attention not only restores efficiency but also helps avoid larger, more expensive repairs later.

Keep Your Vents and Registers Clear

Blocked vents will restrict warm airflow through your home and make rooms harder to heat, which puts more burden on your furnace. Check that any bookcases, furniture, rugs, curtains, and other household items aren’t obstructing your registers. Vacuuming off your vents and removing dust buildup can help circulation and prevent your home from feeling chilly.

Optimize Humidity Levels

Dry winter air makes your home feel cooler, regardless if you keep your thermostat at a higher setting. Making the move to a whole-house humidifier helps balance moisture levels to keep your home feeling warmer than ever at a lower temperature. The results? You enjoy warmer air at a lower cost and can extend the lifespan of your HVAC while saving energy. 

Maximize Your Curtains and Sunlight Usage

You can keep more heat inside of your home by maximizing your curtains and sunlight usage. Keep your curtains and window treatments closed at night to keep heat from escaping. During the day, open them up to capture natural sunlight and warm up your home. If your windows are drafty, take the time to seal them and add window drafts to reduce heat loss.

Turn On Your Ceiling Fans in Winter

Your ceiling fans offer value, even during the winter months as warm air naturally rises. Heat from your furnace in Akron Ohio collects near the ceiling while the lower part of the room still feels chilly. Here’s what to do next:

• Reverse direction: Switch the fan to rotate clockwise at a low speed.
• Gentle circulation: Instead of creating a breeze, the fan slowly pushes the trapped warm air at the ceiling back down into the living space.
• Better comfort: Rooms feel warmer overall without raising the thermostat.
• Energy savings: Your furnace doesn’t have to run as often, reduces wear and tear, and lowers your utility bills in Ohio.

Schedule Regular Furnace Maintenance

The best way to make sure your system runs as efficiently as possible is to schedule annual furnace maintenance. A technician will clean burners, inspect electrical components, check airflow, and calibrate the thermostat. Our tune-ups improve the warmth of your home while preventing major  furnace repair in Akron Ohio. Remember, preventive care is always more affordable than emergency service.

Upgrade Your Furnace On Time

At some point, even a well-maintained furnace will need to be replaced or upgraded. If your system is 15 to 20 years old and requires frequent service, replacement may be the most cost-effective option. Depending on your budget and preferences, we may recommend newer ENERGY STAR® models deliver far better performance, lowering both your carbon footprint and monthly bills. Our team are experts at all things heating and cooling in Akron Ohio and can guide you through the process to help you decide when upgrading makes sense.

Call Jennings Heating, & Cooling to Maximize Your Furnace’s Efficiency

Ready to make the most of your heat this winter and keep as much heat as possible inside of your home? The heating and cooling experts at Jennings are always here to help. From maintenance to repairs and new installations, we offer everything we need for all of your furnaces in Akron Ohio. Schedule your appointment today!