Gas Furnace Maintenance Tips to Improve Performance

The biggest thing you can do to maintain your furnace and help it run more efficiently is to change the HVAC air filter regularly. In many cases, the filter is located in a compartment next to your furnace. However, it may be located behind a large return air vent located in the ceiling or on an interior wall in your home. 

Your HVAC air filter captures dust, dirt, pet hair, and other particulates. A dirty or clogged filter can block airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder to heat your home. The harder your unit works, the more energy it uses, and the greater the wear and tear. 

It’s important to know that you need to change your furnace filter year-round, because in addition to heating your home, the furnace acts as the air handler for your air conditioner or heat pump. Every home is different. How quickly your filter gets dirty depends on several factors, such as home size, pets, and filter quality. But here are a few guidelines to follow: 

Higher quality, thicker pleated filters may need to be changed less often than thinner 1” filters. Your programmable or smart thermostat may alert you when you need to change the filter, but you can also set a reminder in your smartphone

First, find out where the filter is located in your system and then follow these steps. If you have any questions, contact your American Standard HVAC pro. 

For more details on choosing the right filter and replacing it, read our blog on HVAC Air Filter Replacement 101.  

Annual furnace maintenance in the fall is sufficient. Schedule your yearly furnace maintenance around the end of September through the beginning of November, depending on where you live. Scheduling your furnace preventative maintenance around the time that you need to start using the heat helps ensure your system is ready for winter.

Schedule furnace preventative maintenance every fall before heating season is in full swing. Here’s what your American Standard HVAC expert may do during annual furnace maintenance.  

With yearly furnace maintenance and regular filter changes, your furnace can last 15-20 years or more. How long your furnace lasts will depend on the initial quality of the unit, how often it runs, and how well you keep up with maintenance and repairs. 

A yearly furnace tune-up can range from $70 to around $200. Your cost will depend on where you live, the condition of your furnace, and more. Consider signing up for an HVAC maintenance plan that covers both furnace and air conditioner maintenance to save money and for added benefits.   

Here are a few common issues and potential solutions if your furnace isn’t working as expected. 

Problem: Gas furnace won’t turn on. 
Solution: Check that your thermostat is set to heat (especially if it’s the first time using it). 

Problem: Gas furnace not blowing hot air. 
Solution: Ensure the thermostat is set properly and change the filter. 

Problem: Hot upstairs. Cold downstairs. 
Solution: Consider HVAC zoning to heat the rooms you want. 

Problem: Gas bills are rising without a rate increase or colder temperatures. 
Solution: Your furnace may be running too much. Set your thermostat lower, schedule service, or invest in a more energy-efficient furnace. If you have a gas water heater, check it for problems, as well. 

For more information, check out our gas furnace troubleshooting tips.

In general, a gas furnace should last 15-20 years, but can last much longer. By following these tips, you can help extend the life of your furnace while maintaining comfort.