6 Common Furnace Maintenance Mistakes Homeowners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Mendota Furnace Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

When winter arrives, it’s easy to overlook furnace maintenance in Mendota, IL, until there’s a problem. Instead of waiting for an emergency heating repair in Mendota, IL, stay on top of furnace care to keep your system running efficiently and identify problems before they get out of hand. The team at Triple Service is always here to maintain, repair, and install your furnace. We also put together some of the most common maintenance mistakes that homeowners make that can compromise your furnace’s performance and lead to bigger issues. 

1. Forgetting to Change the Air Filter

Changing the filter is a simple but critical step for maintaining the efficiency of your furnace. When you skip filter changes, you restrict the airflow to your home and make your furnace work harder than ever. It reduces efficiency, causes overheating, and can even shut down your system in extreme cases. Set a calendar reminder to change your filter every 1 to 3 months. You may need to change it more often during peak season or if you have an older furnace. Regular filter changes can also improve the air quality of your home.

2. Skipping Annual Inspections

Even if your furnace seems like it’s working just fine, there can still be hidden issues. Even a small crack in your heat exchanger or ignition problems can lead to system breakdowns or safety issues. To catch the issues as early as possible, schedule an annual checkup with Triple Service. We’ll test your system, change your filter, clean-up the system, look for any issues, and get on top of any small issues to give you peace of mind that your furnace is ready for the season.

3. Blocking Vents and Reducing Airflow

Furniture, curtains, or clutter blocking your vents compromises the airflow of your furnace. You’re putting an unnecessary strain on your system and can possibly lead to overheating and system breakdowns. Check that all of your vents are clear and wipe them down to remove dust and debris so your furnace can distribute the warmth effectively throughout your home. You’ll prevent strain on your system while helping maintain consistent comfort.

4. Attempting DIY Repairs Without Proper Knowledge

Some savvy homeowners who are skilled at DIY projects try to handle furnace repairs on their own. Unless you’ve worked as a heating technician in Mendota before, you could put yourself in danger, make the issue worse, or void your warranty altogether. Only skilled technicians should handle tasks like adjusting gas lines, lubricating parts, or addressing electrical issues. Don’t put your safety or your furnace at risk! Call the team at Triple Service for safe, skilled maintenance and repairs to keep your furnace operating at its best.

5. Overlooking Thermostat Settings and Battery Replacement

With all the focus on furnaces, it’s simple to forget that thermostat issues can directly impact your heater’s performance. Incorrect settings or low batteries cause your system to work harder or deplete its efficiency. Make a habit of periodically checking your thermostat settings to ensure they’re correct and optimized for energy savings. You should also replace batteries once a year to avoid problems on a cold, winter night.

6. Ignoring Unusual Noises

It’s normal to hear a little noise the first time you turn on your furnace for the season. But if you hear odd sounds coming from your furnace for more than a few minutes, or every time you turn it on, give us a call right away. Squealing, banging, and rattling are signs that you may have component issues, including a blower motor or heat exchanger. If you ignore them, you could end up with severe damage and costly repairs. 

Call Triple Service for Furnace Maintenance in Mendota, IL

Make sure your home stays warm and cozy this winter. Avoiding some common mistakes and taking proactive care makes a big difference in both efficiency and reliability. Triple Service is always here for furnace maintenance in Mendota: repairs, replacements, installations, and more. Schedule your appointment today!

Learn More About Furnace Maintenance in Mendota & Beyond

Check out our blog posts below for some helpful info, expert tips and more!

• 4 Easy End of Summer Furnace Maintenance Tips
• How to Save Money with Regular Heating Maintenance
• 10 Ways to Maintain Your Furnace and Extend Its Lifespan