The Truth Behind These 5 Furnace Maintenance Myths

As the chill of fall and winter approaches, ensuring your home’s furnace is in peak condition is paramount. However, along the way, many homeowners encounter pervasive myths about furnace maintenance that could lead to unnecessary expenses, inefficiency, or even safety hazards. Cafco Services is here to set the record straight and ensure your furnace maintenance decisions are informed and effective. Let’s debunk some common furnace maintenance myths that have been circulating for far too long.

1. Restoring Old Furnaces Can Save Money – Many believe that restoring an old furnace can extend its life and save money compared to purchasing a new one. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth for homeowners. Old furnaces, even when restored, cannot match the energy efficiency standards set by newer models. Opting for a new furnace not only brings improved energy efficiency but also comes with warranties that do not apply to restored units. Save your money and future headaches by investing in a new furnace when the time comes.

2. High-Efficiency Furnaces Always Ensure Lower Bills – Switching to a high-efficiency furnace seems like a guaranteed way to reduce heating costs. However, the efficiency of a furnace is not solely determined by its AFUE rating. Proper installation and correct sizing are crucial. A furnace that is too large or too small for your home, or one that’s poorly installed, can negate any expected savings on energy bills despite its high-efficiency rating. Always ensure professional installation to fully benefit from high-efficiency units.

3. Electric Furnaces Are Cheaper Because They’re 100% Efficient – While it’s true that electric furnaces boast a 100% AFUE rating due to their lack of flue gas losses, this doesn’t necessarily translate to lower operating costs. In areas where the cost of electricity can be higher than natural gas, operating an electric furnace can actually be more costly. The choice between gas and electric furnaces should consider both the efficiency and the cost of the energy source in your area.

4. A Bigger Furnace Provides Better Heating – The misconception that a bigger furnace equals better heating can lead to significant inefficiency and discomfort. An oversized furnace cycles on and off more frequently, a condition known as short-cycling. This not only reduces the efficiency and lifespan of the furnace but can also lead to uneven heating throughout your home. For optimal comfort and efficiency, ensure your furnace is properly sized for your home’s specific heating needs.

5. Furnaces Don’t Require Maintenance If They’re Running – Perhaps one of the most dangerous myths is that a furnace doesn’t need maintenance if it appears to be running fine. Regular, annual maintenance is critical to ensure your furnace operates at peak efficiency, prevents unexpected failures, and extends its life. Even furnaces that seem to be in good working order can have underlying issues that, if left unchecked, can lead to costly breakdowns or even pose safety risks, such as carbon monoxide leaks.

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Taking the time to debunk these myths and understand the true essentials of furnace maintenance can save you money, improve the longevity of your heating system, and ensure the safety and comfort of your Cincinnati home throughout the colder months. If you have concerns about your furnace or wish to schedule professional maintenance, contact Cafco Services today. With our expertise and commitment to quality, we’ll ensure your furnace is in top shape for the winter ahead. Call us at (513) 242-3400 or fill out our convenient online form to get started.