A heating system is an integral part of a home. When it doesn’t work correctly, it can be a significant investment and a constant source of frustration. A poorly maintained or malfunctioning heating system can result in high energy bills, increased wear and tear on the unit itself, and even an unhealthy living environment for your family.  Not to mention that Alexandria heating repair can be costly when a unit is not maintained correctly. You’ll need to keep up with some basic maintenance tasks to ensure that your heating system lasts as long as possible and runs efficiently for as long as possible.

The Importance of Heating System Maintenance

A well-maintained heating system can extend its lifespan exponentially. Still, a poorly maintained or malfunctioning unit is a huge frustration for homeowners, who must spend more time and money on repairs throughout the year. If you’re not sure what exactly may be causing your problems, it could be caused by any of a number of issues. The following are five factors that influence the lifespan of your heating system:

1. Maintenance and Upkeep of the Heating System

A poorly maintained unit could lead to a buildup of dust and debris, making it difficult for the system’s components to operate efficiently. Because not enough attention has been paid to keeping up with preventative maintenance tasks, the exterior portion of a system is also vulnerable to damage from inclement weather.

2. The Type of Fuel That a Unit Uses

Heating systems in northern states and colder climates, for example, require a more powerful system to adequately warm homes. Energy bills are higher during the winter months because a furnace or heat pump consumes a lot of energy. If you are not ready to make such an investment, you can always look into a more energy-efficient system that consumes less fuel. While this is an excellent alternative, you will still be unable to fully control the temperature in your home.

3. Your Heating System’s Age

The older a heating system is, the more likely it is to fail. To receive a warranty on a new furnace or heat pump installation, most manufacturers recommend replacing a unit every 15-20 years. While this timeframe varies by manufacturer and depends on several factors, a poorly maintained unit running for a few decades will increase the likelihood of a costly replacement.

4. The Size of Your Home 

If you live in a smaller home, a heating system that is too powerful could cause your utility bills to go through the roof. A properly sized unit for a smaller space will help balance out the cost of energy use. You won’t have to worry about constantly repairing or replacing a furnace or heat pump due to it being used more than its intended capacity.

5. How Often it’s Used

A heating system that is used frequently will have a shorter lifespan, but one that is used infrequently will still be vulnerable to damage if not properly maintained. The frequency with which a unit is turned on can help determine the types of preventative maintenance tasks you’ll need to perform on a regular basis, as well as how much attention your home may require during the winter months when a system is fully operational. Tips for a homeowner who wants to make sure their heating unit runs efficiently:

• Check the air filter regularly and replace it when needed 
• Vacuum or sweep around a heat pump so that debris doesn’t get inside of it 
• Install a programmable thermostat, which can regulate the temperature throughout a day 
• A clean furnace or heat pump is a happy one, so make sure yours is well taken care of by a professional company.

How Often Do I Have To Change My Filter? 

A clogged air filter is a major headache for a homeowner because it causes a heating system to work harder and less efficiently, resulting in a higher energy bill. A clogged air filter can also be a major issue for your heating system because it forces the unit to work harder to distribute hot air throughout your home, which can cause damage or malfunctioning in a short period of time. During peak season, it’s usually recommended that you change a disposable furnace filter every month and replace a permanent one every six months. A clogged or dirty furnace filter can cause a heating system to malfunction, making it difficult for a homeowner to determine what is wrong with the unit.

Should I Repair Or Replace My Heating Unit?  

If a heating system fails, a homeowner will want it repaired as soon as possible and as efficiently as possible. A poorly maintained or faulty unit can cause a slew of costly problems throughout the year, which means you’ll need to replace it sooner rather than later if you don’t properly maintain your current heating system. Repairing your current unit rather than purchasing a new one may be more cost-effective in the long run because repairing an older model can save homeowners money on energy bills and a lot of money on a new unit.

How Do I Know When My Heating System Needs a Tune-Up? 

A tune-up is a routine service offered by an HVAC company, and it includes cleaning components of your furnace or heat pump to make sure they are running efficiently before the coldest months arrive. This task will help you prolong a heating system’s lifespan.  An HVAC company will ensure your furnace or heat pump is running efficiently by making necessary repairs and adjustments before it’s too late. This service also includes testing an entire unit for carbon monoxide leaks using a special machine, so you’ll know a professional has checked every inch of your heating system before a cold winter hits.

When it Comes to Heating, Cardinal is Your Best Choice

A once-a-year professional checkup is often enough to keep your unit running efficiently for a long time and prevent future problems from arising, but if you’re experiencing a number of different malfunctions throughout the colder months of the year, it could be a sign that you need to call an Alexandria heating repair company as soon as possible. Cardinal is unbeatable when it comes to heating. You will receive a level of customer service unparalleled by any other company from the moment we answer your call. We cover all bases, whether it’s installation or maintenance on your existing system. Our Alexandria heating repair services meet you where you are. When it comes to service calls, we stand behind every job with a satisfaction guarantee – just give us a call at (703) 721-8888 to get started today.