Helpful Tips to Avoid Future Furnace Repairs
How can you reduce the chances of costly furnace repairs in the future?
Nobody wants to wake up to a freezing house on a January morning because the furnace gave out overnight. Fortunately, there are several simple, proactive steps you can take now to reduce the chances of an unexpected breakdown later.
Let’s walk through some of the most effective tips to keep your furnace running efficiently and avoid major repair bills down the line.
1. Schedule Annual Maintenance (Before It’s Too Late)
Just like your car needs regular oil changes, your furnace needs annual checkups. A professional HVAC technician can spot issues you might not notice, like a worn-out blower motor or a cracked heat exchanger, before they lead to expensive problems.
At Obsidian Heating & Cooling, we recommend scheduling a furnace tune-up every fall, especially for homeowners in Ankeny, Des Moines, Urbandale, and surrounding suburbs. This helps your system run efficiently and extends its lifespan.
2. Change Your Filter, Seriously
One of the easiest ways to protect your furnace is also one of the most overlooked. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder. This added stress can cause overheating and premature failure.
Change your filter every 1–3 months, especially during peak heating season. Not sure what kind you need? Our team can recommend the right filter based on your system and indoor air quality needs.
3. Keep Vents & Registers Unblocked
Blocked vents make your system less efficient and create uneven heating throughout your home. Make sure rugs, furniture, curtains, and holiday decorations aren’t covering any vents or registers.
This is especially important in two-story homes where airflow needs to stay balanced to heat upper and lower floors evenly.
4. Don’t Ignore Strange Noises or Smells
That loud clanking noise or burnt smell? It’s probably not “just the furnace warming up.” Unusual sounds or odors can signal a range of problems, from loose parts to dangerous combustion issues.
If something seems off, call a trusted HVAC pro (like Obsidian) before it gets worse.
5. Upgrade Your Thermostat
Older thermostats can misread temperatures, causing your furnace to cycle too often or not enough. A smart or programmable thermostat keeps your furnace running efficiently, helps reduce wear and tear, and can even save on energy bills.
It’s an easy upgrade with long-term benefits.
6. Consider a Furnace Replacement (If It’s Time)
If your furnace is 15–20 years old and requires frequent repairs, it might be more cost-effective to replace it. Newer models are more efficient, safer, and often come with better warranties.
We’re happy to provide a no-pressure quote and help you decide whether it’s time for an upgrade.
Your Furnace Doesn’t Have to Be a Mystery
Being proactive doesn’t mean you have to become an HVAC expert. A little preventative care goes a long way, and the team at Obsidian Heating & Cooling is here to make furnace maintenance easy.
If you're in the Des Moines metro area, including Ankeny, Johnston, Clive, or Waukee, schedule a checkup today and avoid the headache of emergency repairs tomorrow.
📞 Call us or book online now for fast, friendly service from your local furnace experts.
