Most people consider regular auto maintenance an essential element of vehicle ownership. From regular oil changes and tire rotations to complete tune-ups, drivers frequently have their cars serviced to ensure that they are reliable and efficient. Regular service can identify potential issues and address any concerns with the operation of the vehicle. Many people place great importance on maintaining their car, but they often don’t pay the same attention to their furnace. Like your car, however, you rely on your furnace to be dependable and safe while in use.

Homeowners often perform various maintenance tasks on HVAC equipment, from changing air filters to cutting back shrubbery from around outside units. These elements of routine maintenance are essential. However, they aren’t enough to keep your furnace running at peak performance. Performing tasks like changing air filters are similar to putting gas in your car. It is a requirement, but it isn’t going to keep the engine from breaking down. When it comes to regular service, your furnace requires the same treatment as your car to keep it running safely and smoothly throughout the winter.

The majority of furnace manufacturers suggest that you schedule regular fall maintenance for your furnace every year. Unfortunately, many homeowners neglect regular furnace maintenance for so long that it leads to system inefficiencies, premature equipment failure, or costly repairs and safety issues. When it comes to your furnace, an ounce of prevention can go a long way. Let’s take a look at four reasons why you need to schedule fall furnace maintenance.

1. Efficiency

An annual furnace tune-up is the best way to ensure that your equipment is energy-efficient. Your heating system can account for almost half of your monthly energy bills in the winter. If any issues are slowing your system down, your furnace will have to work harder to deliver warm air to your home. When your system has to expend more energy, your energy costs will increase. From poor airflow to high energy bills, normal wear and tear can take a toll on your furnace and create inefficiencies. If you want lower energy bills and improved air circulation, annual fall furnace maintenance can ensure that your system runs at peak efficiency.

2. Prolonged Lifespan

The average lifespan of furnace equipment is around 20 years. Annual preventative maintenance, however, has been shown to extend the lifespan of units by several years. Over the winter, small issues like minor cracks, leaks, and worn components can result from normal use. If left unaddressed, many of these small issues can wear on your system and lead to malfunctions that could impact the health of your equipment. Fall is the best time to get annual furnace maintenance to address any problems and tune-up your equipment before the heating season. Resolving small problems and servicing your equipment will help prolong the life of your unit.

3. Fewer Problems

As discussed, normal use can lead to several minor issues with your furnace. Without regular maintenance, smaller problems can lead to the need for major repairs or even premature equipment replacement over time. When your furnace goes out, you could be on the hook for costly repairs. To avoid the headache and costs of furnace failures during the winter, regular maintenance could prevent any problems before you need your system.

4. Safer Equipment

Aside from the small mechanical issues that develop due to normal wear and tear, many other issues can lead to safety concerns. Worn wiring and connections and cracks in the heat exchanger could pose a danger of fire or carbon monoxide leaks. These issues could threaten your home or your family’s health. Regular maintenance will ensure that any safety issues are identified and addressed.

Before the winter months place heavy demands on your furnace, you should invest in fall maintenance to give your system a tune-up. Annual service will help protect expensive equipment and keep your furnace from going out in the middle of winter.