How to Improve the Efficiency of Your Home Furnace
- Ian Susko
- Dec 25, 2025
- 4 min read
You can improve your home furnace efficiency by keeping up with regular maintenance and making simple adjustments to how you use your system. Changing air filters, sealing duct leaks, and checking vents are easy ways to help your furnace run more efficiently. These steps can reduce energy costs, extend the life of your system, and keep your home more comfortable throughout the winter.
Millions of homes in the U.S. rely on furnaces for heating, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). That means knowing how to maintain your system and improve efficiency is important for homeowners everywhere. At Home Comfort Solutions in Lehighton, PA, we provide professional furnace maintenance, repair, and installation services to help residents enjoy energy-efficient heating.
In this blog post, we'll share practical furnace maintenance tips, ways to boost efficiency, and guidance for older systems to keep your home comfortable all season long.

How Do I Make My Furnace More Efficient?
One of the simplest ways to boost your furnace efficiency is to keep it clean and well-maintained. Regularly replacing or cleaning air filters ensures proper airflow, which reduces strain on your system. You can also inspect vents and ducts for leaks and blockages, sealing any gaps to prevent heat loss.
Another strategy is to adjust your thermostat settings. Lowering the temperature when you're not at home or using a programmable thermostat can save energy without sacrificing comfort. Additionally, keeping furniture and curtains away from vents allows warm air to circulate freely, improving overall efficiency.
At Home Comfort Solutions in Lehighton, PA, we help homeowners implement these practical tips and provide advice on optimizing furnace performance. Following these steps can lower energy bills and extend the lifespan of your heating system.
How Efficient Is My 20-Year-Old Furnace?
A 20-year-old furnace is likely less efficient than modern models. Older systems often operate at 56-70% efficiency, while newer ENERGY STAR-rated furnaces can reach 90-98%. Reduced efficiency means higher energy bills and uneven home heating.
Age-related wear and outdated technology can cause your furnace to consume more fuel and struggle to maintain temperature. Components like burners, heat exchangers, and motors may also deteriorate, affecting overall performance. Regular inspections can identify these issues before they lead to major repairs.
At Home Comfort Solutions in Lehighton, PA, we assess older furnaces to determine if repairs or replacement is the better option. Knowing your system's efficiency helps you make informed decisions and ensures your home remains warm while minimizing energy waste.
Common Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Furnace Running Smoothly
Routine maintenance is essential for keeping your furnace in top condition. Start with regular filter changes every 1-3 months, depending on usage. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing the system to work harder and use more energy.
Inspecting and cleaning ducts, vents, and blower components also helps prevent blockages that reduce efficiency. Lubricating moving parts, checking the thermostat, and clearing the area around the furnace improve both performance and safety.
Home Comfort Solutions offers comprehensive maintenance services to handle these tasks professionally. With regular upkeep, your furnace will operate more efficiently, last longer, and keep your home comfortable through the coldest months of the year.
When to Call a Professional HVAC Technician
Some furnace issues require professional attention. Strange noises, uneven heating, frequent cycling, or unusually high energy bills can indicate underlying problems. Ignoring these signs may lead to costly repairs or complete system failure.
Professional HVAC technicians have the tools and expertise to safely inspect and repair your furnace. They can clean critical components, check for leaks, and ensure that your system operates at peak efficiency. Scheduling annual inspections prevents small issues from becoming major problems.
Our team is available 24/7 for furnace repair and maintenance. Calling us promptly ensures your system stays reliable and energy-efficient while protecting your home and family from heating disruptions.
Energy-Saving Upgrades and Smart Thermostats
Modern upgrades can significantly improve furnace efficiency. High-efficiency furnaces, variable-speed blowers, and properly insulated ducts reduce energy waste and lower heating bills. Adding zone controls allows you to heat only the areas you use most, further saving energy.
Smart thermostats provide additional control by learning your schedule and adjusting temperatures automatically. These devices can be accessed remotely, so you can manage energy use even when away from home. Integrating these technologies with routine maintenance maximizes comfort and efficiency.
Home Comfort Solutions helps homeowners with energy-saving upgrades and smart thermostat installation. These improvements not only reduce costs but also help you maintain consistent warmth while minimizing the environmental impact of your heating system.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Schedule Furnace Maintenance?
Regular maintenance is key to efficiency. At Home Comfort Solutions, we recommend an annual inspection to keep your furnace running smoothly and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Can Dirty Filters Really Affect Heating Costs?
Yes. Clogged filters restrict airflow, making your furnace work harder and use more energy. Replacing filters every 1-3 months can improve performance and lower bills.
Are All Furnaces Energy-Efficient?
Older models are typically less efficient. Modern furnaces use advanced technology to provide consistent heat while reducing energy consumption. Our team can assess your system and recommend upgrades if needed.
What Warning Signs Indicate a Furnace Problem?
Strange noises, uneven heating, frequent cycling, and higher energy bills may signal issues. Home Comfort Solutions can inspect your system and provide necessary repairs.
Can I Install a Furnace Upgrade Myself?
Furnace upgrades require professional installation to ensure safety and efficiency. Our licensed technicians handle installation, repair, and maintenance for peace of mind.
Schedule Your Furnace Service in Lehighton, PA
Keep your home warm and energy-efficient with a properly maintained furnace. At Home Comfort Solutions in Lehighton, PA, we provide expert home heating solutions, from routine maintenance to full system upgrades.
Regular care not only keeps your furnace running smoothly but also lowers energy costs and prevents unexpected breakdowns. Whether you need a repair, a new installation, or advice on energy-saving upgrades, our licensed technicians are ready to help.
Schedule your service today and enjoy reliable, efficient heating all season long. Call Home Comfort Solutions now and get the most out of your furnace.




