Furnaces Houston, TX

The most effective way to prevent furnace problems is scheduling annual professional maintenance before winter. Additionally, change air filters every 1-3 months during heating season, keep the area around your furnace clean and unobstructed, ensure all vents are open and unblocked, install a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace, and address unusual noises or performance issues promptly. These simple steps are especially important in Houston where furnaces often sit unused for extended periods, making them more susceptible to dust accumulation and component issues when suddenly activated.

This decision depends on several factors: age (if over 15 years, replacement often makes more sense), repair frequency and costs (multiple repairs in recent years suggest replacement), efficiency (older units waste 30-40% more energy), and performance (consistent comfort issues indicate it’s time for an upgrade). For Houston homes, where heating demands are less intense than in northern climates, properly sized, high-efficiency furnaces often provide the best balance of upfront cost and long-term energy savings. Luke’s provides free evaluations to help you make this important decision.

Proper sizing is crucial for efficient operation and comfort. In Houston’s relatively mild climate, many homes have oversized furnaces that cycle too frequently, wasting energy and wearing out prematurely. We determine the right size through a comprehensive load calculation that considers your home’s square footage, insulation quality, window efficiency, ceiling height, layout, and Houston’s specific climate factors. This scientific approach ensures your new furnace matches your home’s exact heating requirements, providing optimal comfort while minimizing energy consumption during our brief heating season.

For most Houston homes, change standard 1-inch furnace filters every 1-3 months during heating season. Locate your filter slot (typically between the return air duct and furnace), turn off the furnace, remove the old filter (noting airflow direction arrows), insert the new filter with arrows pointing toward the furnace, and secure the access panel. High-efficiency filters may last 3-6 months but restrict airflow more, potentially reducing efficiency. During maintenance visits, Luke’s technicians can show you exactly where your filter is located and recommend the optimal replacement schedule for your specific system.

Look for a company that’s licensed and insured, has positive customer reviews, employs NATE-certified technicians, offers upfront pricing with no surprise fees, provides written estimates, guarantees their work, and has experience with your specific furnace brand. Luke’s Plumbing & Air Conditioning meets all these criteria, plus we offer emergency service when you need help during unexpected cold fronts. Our technicians receive ongoing training on all major furnace brands and types, ensuring they have the expertise to diagnose and resolve your specific issue quickly and correctly.