Going without a furnace in the dead of winter is almost unthinkable. So if a furnace breaks down unexpectedly, most people will pay the exorbitant amount for emergency furnace repair in San Jose, CA. What they may not realize is there are several things they can do to reduce the risk of these surprise breakdowns and avoid such costly repairs. Here are just five ways to avoid expensive furnace repair:

Find the Optimum Stable Temperature

A lot of people like to adjust the thermostat up and down according to their comfort level. If they feel cold they crank it up, and if they feel too hot they will turn it down. But the constant fluctuations can do major damage to your heating device. It is better to keep the thermostat at a stable temperature so it can operate more efficiently. Find a happy medium and instead of touching the thermostat use layers or blankets to keep yourself warm. This will not prevent repairs, but it can extend the duration between repairs and prolong the life of your system.

Regularly Clean or Replace Filters

Filters are a major component in your HVAC system to ensure the right amount of airflow. If a filter clogs with dirt the system cannot efficiently pull air through the ducts. Overloaded filters can also allow particles of dust and dirt to transfer into the interworkings of the unit. This can lead to emergency shut-offs or premature system failure. During the heating season, you should check your filters every month. Replace disposable filters or clean reusable filters if they are clogged. This small maintenance will go a long way and preventing unnecessary repairs.

Keep Dust and Dander Away

To improve or maintain system performance, you need to keep the ductwork clean. It starts by maintaining a clean house, keeping dust and dirt under control so it does not cycle through the vents and returns. You should have occupants remove their shoes to keep dirt at the front door. You should also vacuum, sweep, and dust regularly. In addition, you should have your ductwork cleaned every few years. The amount of debris accumulated might surprise and disgust you. Having it professionally cleared out will make a significant difference in the life of your system.

Schedule Annual Furnace Inspections

To avoid unnecessary breakdowns you should not begrudge your annual furnace inspection. This service allows technicians to take a good look at the mechanics of your heating and make sure nothing has gone awry in the last year. They will clean things up, perform minor repairs, and keep your furnace ahead of most major problems.

Don’t Wait to Call for Repair

If you do start to notice an odd sound or a foul odor coming from your furnace, do not wait to call for service. Putting it off in hopes that the problem will simply resolve itself is just wishful thinking. It is far more likely the smaller issue will compound into a much larger problem that will be even more expensive to repair.

Average furnace repair generally costs between $100 and $400. But breakdowns or emergency repairs will often cost more than $1,000. And full-on furnace replacement will be a couple thousand dollars. Better to call for routine furnace repair in San Jose, CA than pay the price for emergency repairs down the road. Contact us at (408) 800-2791 or stop by 1045 N 10th St San Jose, CA 95112 with any questions you might have. The experts at Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning are here to help.