5 Common Furnace Maintenance Mistakes Homeowners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

5 Common Furnace Maintenance Mistakes Homeowners Make (and How to Avoid Them

People often overlook routine furnace maintenance in Tulsa and Owasso until they notice their home is cold. Instead of waiting for a disaster, stay on top of routine maintenance to keep your system running efficiently and safely.

Although annual inspections are vital, you can also do some basic DIY steps to keep your furnace in top-notch shape. However, it’s important to avoid these common maintenance mistakes that save you money, extend your furnace’s lifespan, and provide peace of mind during those cold, winter months. Here are some of the most common maintenance mistakes and the steps to prevent them from damaging your furnace.

1. Neglecting to Change the Air Filter

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is forgetting to change their air filter. Although it may seem like a simple step, it’s crucial for maintaining the efficiency of your furnace. Change out your air filter to avoid trapped dust, pollen, pet hair, and other debris from circulating into your home’s air. Otherwise, you risk restricting the airflow, making your furnace work harder than ever, and potentially increasing your energy bills. In extreme cases, the furnace may shut down completely.

Set a calendar alert to replace your filter every 1 to 3 months, depending on the type of filter and how often you use your furnace. If you have a brand new system, you may not need to change your filter quite as often. On the other hand, an older furnace or a home with pets or allergies may require more frequent changes. 

2. Skipping Annual Inspections

It’s easy to underestimate the importance of annual furnace inspections. It doesn’t matter if your furnace is working just fine; you could have hidden issues, including small cracks in the heat exchanger or an issue with the ignition system. An inspection can catch the problems before they turn into emergencies, major repairs, or complete system breakdowns.

Call the team at Torch Service Company for all your Tulsa furnace maintenance needs. We’ll look for any potential issues, perform deep cleaning, test your system, and ensure safety mechanisms are working properly. Regular inspections can keep your home warm and your energy bills in check.

3. Blocking Vents and Airflow

Blocking your vents with furniture, curtains, or clutter makes it harder for your furnace to keep your home warm. Too much blockage could also cause your furnace to overheat and lead to premature wear and tear. Regularly check that your own vents aren’t blocked, adjust the curtains and clear out any debris to help foster consistent temperatures throughout your home.

4. DIY Repairs Without Proper Knowledge

Attempting to handle DIY furnace repairs is okay if you’re just changing a filter or wiping down your venues, but more complicated checks can be risky without the skill and experience. Attempting to lubricate moving parts, fix the electrical or gas lines, or repair your furnace could potentially create dangerous hazards or void your furnace’s warranty.

It’s not worth it! Furnace maintenance service is straightforward, cost-effective, and goes a long way to optimizing its efficiency. Instead, call the team at Torch Service Company to handle annual inspections. We can also run tests and suggest Owasso furnace repairs to keep your system working its best.

5. Ignoring Strange Noises

Do you hear strange noises coming from your furnace? They’re usually a warning sign of more serious, underlying issues. Squealing, banging, rattling, or popping sounds are usually a sign you have a problem with your blower motor, heat exchanger, or other components. 

When you ignore these sounds, they lead to significant damage and can escalate into bigger problems. Professional attention can save you on serious repairs and help extend the lifespan of your furnace. Remember, a quiet and smoothly running furnace is a sign of a well-maintained system.

Call Torch Service Company for Furnace Maintenance In Tulsa and Owasso 

Some proactive care while avoiding common furnace maintenance mistakes are key to keeping your heater running safely, efficiently, and reliably. Torch Service Company offers a one-stop solution for all of your furnace needs. We offer top-notch furnace installation services in Tulsa and Owasso! Schedule your appointment today!

Click on any of the links below to read more heating tips and tricks for your home:

• How to Properly Maintain Your Furnace to Ensure a Longer Lifespan
• How Regular Heating Maintenance Saves You Money
• 10 Essential Heating Maintenance Tips for Every Homeowner
• How to Winterize Your Home’s Heating System: A Complete Checklist
• Is Your Furnace Ready for Winter? Answer These 7 Questions to Find Out