5 Common Furnace Maintenance Mistakes Homeowners Should Avoid

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dirty furnace filter that needs to be changed

A malfunctioning furnace in Morgantown can quickly trigger dread and panic, especially on a frigid winter day. Yet, many homeowners only think about their heating system when the temperatures drop and they’re not getting the heat they need.

Instead of waiting for an emergency on a freezing day, proactive maintenance for your furnace in Pittsburgh and Morgantown can go a long way toward keeping your heater efficient and safe.

Some furnace tasks are easy DIY fixes, but there are also some common furnace maintenance mistakes that could end up costing you a bundle in the long run. The team at Absolute Heating & Air is here to break down the most frequent missteps homeowners make and how you can keep your home warm and your energy bills in check.

Our Pittsburgh and Morgantown heating experts are also always here for your furnace maintenance, repairs, new installations, and other service needs, so don’t hesitate to reach out!

1. Forgetting to Change the Air Filter

Neglecting your air filter is the number one reason for furnace inefficiency. It helps trap the dust, airborne debris, pet dander, and other particles in your home that can aggravate respiratory conditions like asthma. When you continue running your furnace with a clogged air filter, you restrict the airflow and make your system work harder than ever. You’ll end up with less warmth in your home, higher energy bills, and could even cause your furnace to shut down altogether.

Set a reminder to change your air filter every 1 to 3 months. If you have a lot of pets at home, an older furnace, or are prone to respiratory problems, you may need a more frequent change.

2. Assuming Everything is Fine

Even if your furnace seems to be working just fine, you still need an annual inspection and maintenance call. The team at Absolute Heating & Air seems to come out for routine maintenance and inspections to look for hidden issues like cracked heat exchangers or a faulty ignition system, poor ventilation, leaky ductwork, and more.

We’ll also perform thorough cleaning, check safety mechanisms, and fine-tune your furnace for peak performance. Routine furnace maintenance in Pittsburgh and Morgantown is a small investment that ultimately saves you time, money, and headaches in the long run.

3. Blocking Vents and Airflow

Whether you have a small home or room to spare, it’s easy to overlook where you’re placing your furniture or drapes. When you block your vents, you compromise your heating system and restrict the airflow. The results? Poor heat distribution, which can eventually lead to overheating or a complete system strain. The uneven temperatures could also make some rooms uncomfortably chilly.

4. Attempting DIY Repairs Beyond Your Skill Level

We get it—it’s tempting to tackle home projects yourself to save money and take pride in home ownership. Although it’s fine to change your air filter or dust off your vents, complicated furnace repairs are projects best left to the pros. You could end up putting your home at risk with faulty electrical components, gas lines, or delicate mechanical parts. DIY repairs may also void your warranty and leave you exposed to costly, out-of-pocket repairs.

The heating experts at Absolute Heating & Air handle everything from safety checks to complex repairs. We’ve spent years honing our expertise to keep your furnace running smoothly and safely for the seasonal comfort you deserve.

5. Ignoring Unusual Noises

Your furnace should be relatively quiet. Your furnace may produce strange sounds for a few minutes when you turn it on for the first time at the beginning of the season. But anything that goes on for several minutes, or every time you turn on your furnace, needs professional intervention. Listen for strange noises, including banging, squealing, rattling, or popping. These are signs of underlying issues, including with your blower motor, loose components, or a cracked heat exchanger.

Remember, a healthy furnace is a quiet one! Addressing strange noises as early as possible can extend your furnace’s life and keep your system running safely.

Call Absolute Heating & Air for Furnace Maintenance in Pittsburgh and Morgantown

Stay ahead of problems with regular furnace maintenance in Pittsburgh and Morgantown. When you avoid common mistakes, you keep your furnace running efficiently, reliably, and long-lasting.

The team at Absolute Heating & Air offers comprehensive Morgantown and Pittsburgh heating services to ensure your system is ready for whatever winter brings. From annual inspections to emergency repairs, we’ve got you covered.

Schedule your furnace maintenance with us today!