Although there is a lot of joy associated with the winter months, from holidays to spending time with family, it can also be an incredibly expensive time of the year. 

When the cold months creep up, and temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, it’s not uncommon to see your energy bills rise. 

The only thing worse than having a high heat bill is finding yourself needing to buy an entirely new heater. It’s not uncommon for people to find themselves with a broken-down heating system after it’s been on blast for several months at a time.

Take a look at some of the most practical tips for increasing the lifespan of your heating system. 

Schedule Regular Maintenance 

Costly repairs can be avoided when you are able to identify them sooner than later. Scheduling regular maintenance for your heater will help you catch any problems early on. A full system inspection helps you protect from unexpected circumstances that could put you out several thousand when you least expect it. As well as having regular maintenance on your heating system, it may also be worth scheduling an EICR Report for your whole house to ensure bad wiring doesn’t cause a problem with your heating.

As with most things, prevention is the best way to avoid problems. The alternative is  letting issues persist too long and having to replace your system altogether. In order to make the most out of your investment, you’ll need to put in a little effort. 

Change Your Filters 

Did you know that your filter is your heater’s main source of defense against everything from pet dandruff to skin particles? The amount of gunk that you allowed to accumulate in your filter can have a significant impact on the life span of your heater. It’s important that you change your heater’s filter at least once a month. 

Although the thought of having to buy something every month for your heater in addition to the bill may make you cringe, it doesn’t have to break the bank.  You don’t have to buy the most expensive filter that money can buy. A basic, durable filter will do the trick and protect your heater sufficiently.  

Just make sure that it fits properly so that it’s able to do its job correctly. If it’s loose, dust and debris may be able to make it past the filter, or worse, the entire filter could get sucked in. 

Program Your Thermostat 

One of the best ways to maximize your heaters’ potential is to lower the temperature setting at night or when you’re away during the day. The less you demand of your machine over time, the less of a beating it will take. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, then you should seriously consider getting one. Not only will it help extend the life of your heater, but your electric bill will thank you.