Nothing like a cold winter reminds you that your furnace is a crucial part of your home. And while it’s easy to take this appliance for granted, proper maintenance is essential to keeping it running well – and keeping you and your family warm all winter long.
Here are some tips to help you keep your furnace in good shape:
Inspect your furnace filter every month and replace it when it's dirty
Inspecting and replacing your furnace filter is one of the most important things you can do to keep your furnace running efficiently. A dirty filter can impede airflow, causing your furnace to work harder to heat your home. In extreme cases, a dirty filter can cause a furnace to overheat and shut down. Replacing a dirty filter with a clean one is a quick and easy way to ensure that your furnace can operate at its best. Inspecting your filter every month also gives you a chance to spot any potential problems early on before they have a chance to cause severe damage. As such, you are taking the time to inspect and replace your furnace filter is an essential part of keeping your heating system in good working order.
Clean the furnace cabinet and blower compartment every year
As any homeowner knows, furnaces require regular maintenance to function correctly. One crucial part of this maintenance is yearly cleaning the furnace cabinet and blower compartment. These areas can quickly become dust and debris, preventing the furnace from operating efficiently. In addition, a build-up of dirt and grime can also lead to safety hazards, such as fires or explosions. As a result, it is essential to clean these areas regularly.
You can clean the furnace cabinet and blower compartment in a few different ways. One option is to hire a professional to do the job for you. This is often the best option for homeowners uncomfortable doing the work themselves. However, it is essential to note that professionals will likely charge a fee for their services.
If you decide to clean the furnace cabinet and blower compartment yourself, there are a few things that you will need to do. First, you will need to turn off the power to the furnace. Next, you will need to remove the furnace door to access the inside of the unit. Once you have access to the inside of the furnace, you will need to vacuum out any dirt or debris that has accumulated. Finally, you will need to replace the furnace door and turn the power back on.
Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks or corrosion of your furnace every year
A furnace is an essential appliance in many homes, providing warmth during the cold winter. While furnaces are built to last, they require maintenance to keep them running smoothly. One crucial task is to inspect the heat exchanger for cracks or corrosion. This should be done every year, preferably by a qualified technician. Cracks in the heat exchanger can allow poisonous carbon monoxide gases to escape, posing a severe health risk to the home’s occupants.
Another important part of furnace maintenance is ensuring the unit is adequately ventilated. The vents should be clear of debris, and the exhaust pipe should be free of blockages. A qualified technician can help ensure that your furnace operates safely and efficiently.
Tighten all the screws and bolts on the furnace every year
As any homeowner knows, maintaining a comfortable and safe home requires regular care and upkeep. One important task that should be completed yearly is tightening all the screws and bolts on the furnace. This may seem simple, but ensuring that the furnace functions correctly is essential. Loose screws and bolts can cause the furnace to vibrate, which can damage the unit and cause it to operate less efficiently. In addition, loosened screws and bolts can cause the furnace to produce less heat, leading to higher energy bills.
While it is important to tighten all the screws and bolts on the furnace annually, it is also essential to have the unit serviced by a qualified technician. A skilled technician can spot any potential problems with the furnace and make any necessary repairs. Servicing the furnace is also essential for extending its lifespan. Regular maintenance allows a furnace to last many years without needing to be replaced.
Replace the thermostat batteries every two years
A thermostat is a temperature-controlled switch that turns the HVAC system on or off according to the set temperature. It uses sensing elements like bimetallic strips, gas-filled bulbs, etc., to compare the room temperature with the set temperature. When there is a big difference between these two temperatures, the thermostat activates the HVAC system to bring the room temperature closer to the set temperature. A failed thermostat will cause your energy bill to spike because your HVAC system will run nonstop. You can avoid this by changing your thermostat batteries every two years. This will ensure that your thermostat is working correctly and doesn’t miss any cues to turn on or off your HVAC system.
If you have a programmable thermostat, you can save even more on your energy bill by setting it to a lower temperature when you are away from home or asleep. This will prevent your HVAC system from working unnecessarily complex to maintain a comfortable temperature in an empty house. You should also keep your thermostat away from heat sources like lamps or sunlit windows, as this can throw off its readings and cause your HVAC system to turn on unnecessarily.
Have the furnace serviced by a professional every year
As the weather starts to cool down, it’s time to start thinking about firing up the furnace. But before you do, it’s essential to have the furnace serviced by a professional. Annual servicing helps to keep the furnace running smoothly and efficiently and can also help to prevent costly repairs down the line. During servicing, a technician will clean the furnace and all its parts, check for any wear and tear, and make any necessary adjustments. They will also test the furnace to ensure it’s operating at peak efficiency.
Suppose you’re not sure when the last time your furnace was serviced, it’s a good idea to go ahead and schedule a service appointment. Most furnaces should be serviced at least once a year. If yours is due for servicing, or if you’ve noticed any issues with its performance, don’t hesitate to call a professional. A furnace repair technician can come to your home to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.
Conclusion
These furnace maintenance tips may seem like a lot of work, but they’re all critical in keeping your furnace running safely and efficiently. And, if you don’t feel comfortable doing any of this yourself, Maxcare Heating and Cooling can help! We have experienced HVAC contractors who can take care of everything for you so that your furnace is in good shape all winter. Contact us today to schedule your annual furnace service!
