Six Ways to Get the Most from Your Propane Gas Furnace

The heating system uses more energy than any other appliance or system in your Maine home, so it pays to get as much performance out of your propane furnace as you possibly can. Here are six ways to do it:

1. Weatherize your home – Did you know that the amount of air that leaks from a typical home is about equal to keeping a large window wide open? Spending a little time and money to properly insulate your attic and crawl spaces and caulk and weather strip windows can help you avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your furnace – and substantially reduce your energy bills.
2. Maintain your equipment – Routine annual maintenance keeps your propane furnace running at peak efficiency, and helps technicians to spot small issues before they become bigger problems. If you haven’t had routine service on your heating system recently, summer is a great time to avoid the crowds and get a good service appointment time.
3. Change filters regularly – Clogged filters cause your propane furnace to overwork to keep your house warm. Check filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations – usually about once every two months (more if you have a dog or cat that sheds).
4. Install a programmable thermostat – Another great bang-for-the-buck efficiency investment is a programmable thermostat, which allows you to automatically manage how you use your furnace. By not running your gas furnace full out when you’re asleep or away from home, you can cut bills and potentially avoid a costly furnace repair.
5. Replace single pane windows – If your budget allows, consider replacing single pane windows with Energy Star™ rated models. You’ll have fewer drafts, which will take some of the pressure off your furnace.
6. Upgrade your propane furnace – A 10-year-old propane furnace could be running at an efficiency rate as low as 55 percent – which means 45 cents of every dollar you spend on propane is literally disappearing into thin air. Today’s high efficiency gas furnaces reach ratings well into the mid-90s – which means an upgrade can pay for itself in as little as a few years.

Keep your propane gas furnace running at its best: Schedule annual maintenance or get a FREE estimate on an upgrade for you old home heating system today!