With winter around the corner, most homeowners have switched their HVAC systems to heating mode by now. If you have a gas furnace, there are many steps you can take to conserve fuel and energy throughout the season. Taking these preventive steps will not only help you save money, but also stay comfortable indoors. Here’s how to improve the equipment’s efficiency.

How to Prepare a Gas Furnace for Winter

1. Seal Any Drafts

Wood expands and contracts over time as it’s exposed to temperature fluctuations and humidity, which could compromise the fit of doors and windows in their frames. Weatherstripping also wears down over time, leaving gaps around fixtures.

To avoid losing heat through these gaps, look for and seal drafts throughout your home. Hold a lit candle or your hand up to doors and windows, adding more caulk or weatherstripping to any drafty areas.

2. Replace the Filter

Furnace filters trap airborne dust and debris, keeping them out of the heating coils. In doing so, they improve airflow, help prevent indoor allergies, and minimize fire hazards. If a filter is dirty, it may block airflow, driving you to amp up the thermostat temperature to heat your property.

No matter how efficient the filter, it still needs cleaning or replacement every one to three months. Swapping yours out or cleaning it according to the manufacturer’s instructions now will allow air to blow freely through the equipment, keeping your home at a comfortable temperature without using excess fuel.

3. Switch to a Programmable Thermostat

Aside from turning the HVAC unit on and off according to ambient temperatures, traditional thermostats don’t include many automatic settings. As a result, you must manually lower the temperature to reduce energy waste when you don’t need the house to be very warm.

For a more convenient way to conserve fuel, ask a professional about programmable thermostats. These products are highly customizable, letting homeowners operate the heater on a schedule. For example, you could have the thermostat lower the home’s temperature during blocks when you typically leave for work or errands, automatically saving money. This way, you can focus on heating the space only when necessary.

Preventive maintenance will also help you conserve gas and avoid breakdowns when you need the furnace the most. To book a maintenance appointment or HVAC upgrade, reach out to Superior Residential Services of Archdale, NC. Serving homeowners across Guilford and Randolph counties, these contractors have over 65 years of experience. They will inspect your equipment and offer specific solutions to help you save money and fuel. Visit their website to learn more about their work, or call (336) 861-5911 to schedule an appointment.