Your HVAC system is arguably one of the most expensive systems you will have for your home, and it's essential to keep your home at a comfortable and cozy temperature all year through. But what if it suddenly breaks down, and you're in the middle of the winter season? The furnace is one of the things we must take care of the most, but sadly, it's one of the most neglected systems in the home! Most of us don't pay enough attention to our air conditioning and heating systems – and it's too late when we do. If you don't want to end up freezing cold in the middle of the winter season, your best bet is to have your furnace checked annually. Plus, there are some things you can do to extend your furnace's lifespan effectively. What are those? Here's what you should know.

• Replace the filters

One way you could effectively extend the lifespan of your furnace – and it doesn't even take much effort – is to replace the filters. First, examine the filters – if they already look decrepit and dusty, it's time to replace them. If a filter is neglected, it can cause the furnace to release cold air instead of hot, and it will not do much to prolong the life of your furnace, either. When there is too much dust on the filter's cover, the furnace will work doubly hard to move the air – and the fan of the furnace will have to work hard just to overcome the extra barrier. And since there is less air moving throughout your system, the furnace will operate longer just for the temperature to rise. It’s easy to check and clean the filter and keep air moving freely without obstruction, and it’s one good way to prolong your furnace’s lifespan.

• Schedule regular checkups

Another way for your furnace to have a longer lifespan is to schedule it for regular checkups and maintenance, as HVAC in Bartlett IL experts like McNally's will tell you. It sure beats having your furnace undergo repair – and it saves you from the hassle of repairs, too! Once you have scheduled a regular tune-up for your furnace, the HVAC specialist will go through a checklist, ensuring your furnace doesn't have any potential issues – or if it does, it will be addressed immediately.

• Eliminate the problem of air leaks

Did you know that your home is also prone to air leaks? Air leaks can drain homes of hot air – but they can also push your furnace to work as hard as it can for a longer time, further decreasing its lifespan. It's easy for some spots in your home – such as your windows, doors, walls, and even your bathroom and kitchen vents and other small spaces and gaps – to allow moisture and air to penetrate. You can do your part, though – you can prevent drafts and do away with air leaks by making sure your house is adequately sealed and insulated. But how will you know if there is an air leak? It's simple – light a stick of incense and place it in front of the spot – if the smoke produced by the incense wafts upward, there isn't any leak. But if the smoke moves in another direction, there is a leak. You can then easily repair it with caulk and a weather seal.