Optimizing Furnace Efficiency

With the snow arriving earlier and earlier each year, it’s no surprise that by November, Calgarians are already itching to start saving money on their utility bills. Unfortunately, hibernating somewhere warm isn’t an option for most Canadians nor is simply shutting the furnace off for the rest of winter. Instead, Calgarians hoping to save money on their gas will have to balance their temperature preferences with proven methods for increasing their furnace’s efficiency.

Change the Filter.

We’ve said it a thousand times before, and we’ll keep saying it — make sure you’re changing your furnace filter on a regular basis. We can’t even count how many times we’ve been called to fix a complete furnace failure, and the source of the malfunction was a clogged filter which spiralled into numerous expensive complications. It’s our number one piece of advice. If you want more furnace efficiency that requires fewer repairs, just change the furnace filter on time. Put a calendar event in your phone to remind you, and then actually do it.

Install a Programmable Thermostat.

One thing that constantly surprises us is how few Calgarians take advantage of programmable thermostats. While there certainly are expensive thermostats out there, many of the more basic 5-day/2-day programmable thermostats are very affordable, and more to the point, they’ll pay for themselves in under a year. Programmable thermostats allow you to turn your furnace off when you’re away at work or sleeping under a pile of cozy blankets. Only half an hour or an hour before you need the house warm again will the thermostat start the furnace. You’ll be amazed by how much you save by just dropping the house down to 15 or 16°C when you aren’t around anyways.

Annual Furnace Inspection.

Mechanical devices need maintenance. Just like your car needs an annual oil change, your furnace needs an annual inspection. Your friendly Calgary furnace technician will check fluid levels, ensure your filter is working correctly, and perform all necessary regular, preventative maintenance. Furnaces are delicate machines, and one faulty part (like a clogged filter) can cause strain and failure in other areas. With proper care, a high quality furnace can easily last 20 or 30 years. Without regular maintenance, it’s more likely to fail after just 10 or 15.

When it comes to saving on your utility bill this winter, there are many little changes you can do to help. Besides changing your filter and investing in a programmable thermostat, you can also consider using film on your windows and purchasing thermal curtains. Keep weather stripping in good repair and use draft snakes where necessary to keep the wind out and the warmth in.

Forgot to schedule a furnace inspection earlier this year? There’s still time! Remember that many furnace manufacturers require an annual inspection or the warranty is voided. Squeeze in your 2019 furnace efficiency tune up before it’s too late.