Have you noticed your furnace running longer than normal? Paragon Heating and Home Comfort Solutions helps homeowners understand the signs of furnace efficiency decline. Keep reading to discover everything a person should know about the problem and how to avoid the issue.
The Most Common Signs of a Decline in Furnace Efficiency
While an aging furnace naturally experiences a decline in its annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE), the problem can arise well before the end of its life. Stay vigilant for the following signs.
You Experience an Unexplained Rise in Energy Bills
Homeowners expect high utility bills when they run their HVAC system more frequently or experience a rate hike from the utility company. However, what happens if neither of these explain the issue?
When a furnace needs minor repairs or experiences wear and tear, it can still run. However, it uses more fuel to heat the home to a comfortable temperature. Over time, you’ll spend more on energy expenses than you would fixing the issue.
The Home Takes Longer To Heat
If a furnace has a delayed heating response, the home could have a furnace efficiency decline. On average, an HVAC system should increase a house’s temperature by one degree per hour. Once it reaches the ideal setting, it should run for about 15 minutes every hour to maintain the comfort level.
However, every system has a different rate of heating depending on the home’s size, the individual device’s efficiency, and other factors. You likely have a subconscious understanding of how quickly the furnace takes to heat the home. We suggest calling for repairs when homeowners notice signs of longer heating cycles or frequent cycling.
You Can’t Remember the Last Air Filter Change
Don’t overlook the importance of regularly changing the air filter. As it becomes clogged with dirt, the furnace works harder to push air through, significantly reducing efficiency.
Standard filters require changing every 2-3 months. Certain premium models can last up to six months in an average home, while other filters require cleaning with a damp rag rather than complete replacement.
If any of the following situations apply, check the filter more frequently than the manufacturer suggests:
- The family owns a pet that sheds.
- You live in an area of heavy pollution.
- Anyone in the home has severe allergies or respiratory conditions like asthma.
- Someone on the property smokes.
To prevent widespread problems to your HVAC system, health, and property, stay vigilant about replacing the filter.
A Technician Hasn’t Inspected the Device in the Last Year
Regular maintenance is the single most important way to care for your furnace. Schedule a tune-up at least once a year to prevent serious repairs and keep a high level of energy efficiency. Regular maintenance also helps the device last longer because it reduces wear and tear.
What tasks does a technician perform during the yearly appointment?
- Cleaning or replacing air filters
- Checking and tightening electrical connections
- Lubricating moving pieces
- Finding and diagnosing minor problems
- Confirm the correct operation of safety features
What Every Homeowner Should Know About Energy-Efficient Heating Systems
What else should homeowners know about avoiding or dealing with furnace efficiency decline?
Anyone Can Measure Furnace Efficiency
A furnace’s annual fuel utilization efficiency rating measures how much electricity or gas it uses to heat a home. For example, a rating of 80% means it wastes 20% of the energy as byproducts in the combustion process.
Most modern devices have a rating of around 80%, so don’t settle for anything lower than that. Some models have ratings exceeding 90%. Locate the yellow sticker on the side of the furnace to find the exact AFUE.
Sometimes Replacement Offers the Best Solution
As a heating system ages, no amount of repairs can adequately maintain its efficiency. Homeowners will experience an increasing number of expensive repairs.
At this point, upgrading to a new model will save you money in the long term. Installing a new device requires a significant investment. However, compare this cost to regular repairs and exceedingly high energy bills.
Consider an aging furnace an opportunity to obtain long-term savings. Find a way to purchase the most efficient model available and work with the most reliable installation specialists.
Schedule Expert Furnace Efficiency Maintenance and Repairs
If you’ve noticed a furnace efficiency decline, don’t hesitate to contact Paragon Heating and Home Comfort Solutions. We’re always standing by to offer prompt and customized solutions for a competitive price. Investing in a partnership with us helps you save money in the long term.
You can obtain a quote today by calling (425) 312-6341.