How to Improve Furnace Efficiency (and save your money!) 

We all know that home costs can be expensive, and as energy costs continue to rise, improving your furnace’s efficiency is more important than ever. There are two important reasons why you should care about furnace efficiency: lower utility bills over the long term, and your equipment lasts longer. Whether your furnace is brand new or several years old, there are steps you can take to ensure it runs at peak performance.

1. Maintain It 

Annual maintenance by a qualified HVAC technician is one of the best ways to keep your furnace running efficiently. A tech will:

• Inspect and clean critical components such as burners, heat exchangers, and blower motors.
• Check for leaks, cracks, or worn-out parts that could reduce efficiency or pose safety risks.
• Test system performance to ensure it’s operating as designed.

Routine maintenance helps identify small problems before they become costly repairs and will keep your home toasty during those frigid Saskatoon winters. 

2. Filter It

Dirty or clogged air filters can restrict airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder to heat your home. This not only reduces efficiency but can also lead to overheating and long-term damage. Replace or clean filters every 1-3 months, especially during peak usage seasons. Choose high-quality filters designed to trap dust, pollen, and other particles effectively. You can also ask us about our filter program to get your furnace filter delivered right to your door each month. 

3. Seal It

Air leaks in your home can force your furnace to work overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature. Common culprits include:

• Gaps around windows and doors
• Poorly insulated attics, walls, and basements
• Leaky ductwork

You can seal leaks with caulk or weatherstripping and consider adding insulation where needed. Additionally, it doesn’t hurt to have your ductwork inspected and sealed by a professional to prevent heat loss.

4. Make It Smarter

Programmable or smart thermostats enable you to schedule heating according to your household’s routine. This allows you more freedom to reduce energy usage and make sure your furnace isn’t working too hard by lowering the temperature while you’re at work or asleep and raising it before you return home. 

Bonus Tip: Some advanced thermostats even learn your habits and adjust settings automatically. Chat with us to learn more about smart thermostats.

5. Keep It Clear

Blocked or obstructed vents and registers can disrupt airflow, causing your furnace to operate less efficiently.  Keep furniture, rugs, and other objects from covering them and periodically clean vents to remove dust and debris that can accumulate over time.

6. Upgrade It 

If your furnace is reaching the end of its life and is 15-20 years old, it might be the perfect time to consider upgrading to a newer, high-efficiency model. Modern furnaces with an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating of 90% or higher can significantly reduce energy consumption. While the upfront cost can be substantial, the long-term savings on energy bills often make the investment worthwhile.

7. Zone It

Especially useful for larger homes, zoned heating systems divide your home into different areas, each with its own thermostat. This allows you to heat only the rooms you’re using, rather than the entire house. Zoning reduces energy waste and ensures personalized comfort for each area of your home.

8. Moisten It  

Dry air in winter can make your home feel colder, prompting you to turn up the heat. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, making it feel warmer and more comfortable at lower temperatures. Proper humidity levels also help protect wood furniture and floors from drying out.

9. Clean It

The blower motor is responsible for circulating warm air throughout your home. Over time, dirt and dust can accumulate on the motor and fan blades, reducing efficiency. Having the unit serviced by a tech can improve airflow and prevent overheating.

10. Adjust It 

Most furnaces have adjustable settings for the blower fan speed and temperature rise. Ensuring these settings are optimized for your home’s size and insulation can enhance efficiency. An HVAC technician can help you adjust these settings if needed, so be sure to ask! 

11. Cover (and Uncover) It

One of the best ways to heat your home?
The sun, of course. Use natural sunlight to warm your home during the day by keeping curtains and blinds open. Close them at night to reduce heat loss through windows. It might seem like a bit of a pain, but this practice can complement your furnace’s efforts and lower energy consumption.

12. Fan It

Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. By reversing the direction of your ceiling fan (so it spins clockwise), you can push warm air that rises back down into the living space. This helps maintain an even temperature throughout your home and reduces the workload on your furnace.

13. Monitor It

Keep track of your energy bills to identify trends or sudden spikes in usage. An unexplained increase could indicate an issue with your furnace or home insulation. Monitoring energy usage can help you catch problems early and fix them quickly. 

14. Consider It 

Improving your home’s overall energy efficiency can indirectly boost furnace performance. Consider upgrades like:

• Installing energy-efficient windows
• Adding insulation to walls and attics
• Sealing gaps in your home’s exterior

These improvements reduce heat loss and make it easier for your furnace to maintain a comfortable temperature.

15. Vent It 

A furnace needs adequate ventilation to operate safely and efficiently. Blocked vents or flues can lead to reduced performance and potentially dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. Regularly inspect vents and flues for blockages, such as debris, snow, or ice.

16. Don’t Overwork It 

Avoid setting your thermostat too high. It can strain your furnace and increase energy consumption. Instead, dress warmly and use blankets to stay comfortable without overloading your heating system. Every degree you lower your thermostat can lead to noticeable energy savings.

… And That’s It 

With a bit of planning, maintenance and some optional upgrades, a more efficient furnace can lower your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your unit. We’re always happy to chat and advise on better efficiency practices and the care of your furnace. Reach out online or give us a call us.