When the temperature outside drops, a furnace is a must-have piece of equipment for keeping your home warm and cozy. However, some households have bad habits that lead to untimely furnace repairs. To keep your furnace functioning optimally when you need it most, don't make these mistakes.

What HVAC Habits Should You Avoid?

1. Forgetting to Change the Filter

HVAC systems have a filter to trap airborne pollutants and contaminants for better indoor air quality. But over time, they get clogged with dirt, obstructing the proper circulation of heated air. This strains your furnace and causes it to consume more energy to maintain the set temperature.

A dirty filter left unreplaced for an extended period of time might overwork the unit, reducing its lifespan and necessitating furnace repairs. Make sure you change the filters every three months or at shorter intervals if you have pets or allergies to dust, pollen, and other particles. You can also follow the manufacturer's recommendations on when to replace the filter.

2. Blocking or Closing Vents

Warm air exits the furnace through the vents to heat your living space. As a result, when they are closed or obstructed, some places indoors become cooler than usual. And, as a homeowner, your initial inclination might be to raise the thermostat to stay warm.

Check the vents and registers for obstructions such as furniture, window coverings, houseplants, carpets, and other items. These items can obstruct normal airflow, straining your furnace. While you may believe that covering vents in unoccupied rooms saves energy, this is not the case. Instead, inactive vents cause air pressure changes, which cause your furnace to work less effectively.

3. Changing Thermostat Settings Frequently

Some people have a habit of turning up the thermostat to quickly heat their home and lowering it after it's warm. To conserve energy, many homeowners turn off their furnaces.

These habits won't save you money on heating costs in the long run. Moreover, your equipment may wear out faster and need furnace repair if the temperature is adjusted frequently. A better option is to install a programmable thermostat that can be adjusted to lower temperatures while no one is home.

Steer clear of the above habits to keep your heating system in good running condition. When you need furnace repair, rely on Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. in Amherst, OH. They are the area’s trusted HVAC contractor offering cooling and heating installations, repairs, and maintenance. Call (440) 986-5440, or learn more about their services online.