Don’t Believe These 4 Furnace Maintenance Myths

When it comes to maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your furnace system, knowledge is power. Unfortunately, myths and misconceptions can undermine your efforts, potentially leading to unnecessary costs and inefficiencies. 

In this post, Perfect Degree HVAC, your trusted commercial HVAC contractor, debunks these four most common furnace maintenance myths to ensure you are properly informed. 

4 Furnace Misconceptions to Look Out for

1. Restoring Old Furnaces Can Save Money

A prevalent myth suggests that restoring an old furnace can save money compared to buying a new one. While this may seem financially prudent, the reality is that old furnaces, even when restored, cannot match the energy efficiency of newer models. 

Moreover, newer furnaces come with warranties, offering peace of mind that you simply won’t get with an older, restored unit. As a homeowner, opting for a new, more efficient furnace could result in significant energy savings and reduced maintenance costs over time.

2. High-Efficiency Furnaces Guarantee Energy Savings

Another commonly held belief is that upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace guarantees energy and cost savings. However, while a furnace with a higher annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating has the potential to be more efficient, its actual efficiency is highly dependent on proper selection and installation. A poorly installed furnace or one that is not the correct size for your home will not deliver the promised efficiency or savings. Therefore, professional installation and correct sizing are critical.

3. Electric Furnaces Are a More Cost-Effective Option

The fact that electric furnaces have a 100% AFUE rating leads some to believe they are inherently more cost-effective than gas furnaces. While it’s true that electric furnaces can be efficient due to their lack of heat loss through exhaust, the cost of running them can be higher in regions where electricity is more expensive than natural gas. 

It’s essential to compare the costs of electricity and natural gas in your area before deciding on an electric furnace. Additionally, consult your contractor about the most cost-effective heating maintenance package they can offer you.

4. Bigger Furnaces Provide Better Heating

The misconception that a bigger furnace equals better heating can lead homeowners to choose a furnace size that is not suited to their needs. An oversized furnace can result in short-cycling, where the furnace turns on and off frequently without adequately heating the home. This can lead to increased wear and tear, inefficient heating, and higher energy costs. Choosing the right-sized furnace is crucial for efficient heating and cost-effectiveness.

The Importance of Regular Furnace Maintenance

Perhaps one of the most detrimental myths is the belief that furnaces don’t need maintenance if they seem to be working fine. Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring that your furnace operates efficiently and safely. It can identify minor issues before they become major problems, extending the lifespan of your furnace and maintaining its efficiency. Skipping annual maintenance checks can lead to decreased performance, higher energy bills, and even safety hazards such as carbon monoxide leaks.

Ensure your furnace runs efficiently and keeps your home comfortable with HVAC maintenance contracts from Perfect Degree HVAC. Our experts can help clear up any misconceptions, tailor maintenance to your specific needs, and save you money over time. Call us at (610) 529-7372 or complete our contact form to schedule an appointment.