Just like any other appliance in your home, the furnace needs to be properly maintained. Routine maintenance not only ensures that the system is functioning properly, but it also improves the efficiency of the system, saves you money, and most importantly, ensures the safety of you and your family.
What Furnace Maintenance is Needed?
A furnace should be maintained at least once a year. In addition, you have two options: do it yourself or call in a professional. Obviously, if you’re going to take the DIY approach, you need to know exactly what needs to be done in order to maintain the appliance. On the other hand, even if you’re having a professional do the job for you, knowing what to expect is a good idea. So, what maintenance does a furnace need? Here’s a look at some of the most essential tasks that should take place during routine furnace maintenance.
The Filter System
One of the most important components of a gas furnace is the filter system, as it prevents dirt and debris from making their way into the furnace. The filter should be inspected and cleaned on an as-needed basis, depending on your use. For example, if you use your furnace regularly, you may want to inspect and clean the filter bi-weekly. Once it reaches a point where cleaning the filter is no longer sufficient, it should be replaced. Additionally, if the filter is completely clogged, you’re going to need to replace it.
The Blower
After you check and clean or change the filter system, you should inspect and clean out the blower. This component of the furnace is situated right by the air filter. Any dust, dirt, and debris that pass through the air filter will make their way into the blower. The blower, as well as the belts and pulleys that are situated within it, will need to be cleaned in order to rid them of any built-up dirt. In order to access the blower assembly, you’ll need to take off the panels that conceal the air filter. You can clean out these elements of your furnace with a clean damp cloth.
The Ducts
The ducts of a forced-air furnace, in particular, are prone to damage. That’s why it’s important to check and clean the ducts on a regular basis. You do so by simply using a vacuum cleaner with high-powered suction. If you notice any damage to the ducts, they should be replaced.
The Vents
The venting system of a gas furnace is vital, as it allows for ventilation. If the vents aren’t functioning properly, the system won’t ventilate properly, which could result in a dangerous situation. The vents can become clogged with dust and debris, so it’s important to inspect and clean them on a regular basis. A hard-bristled brush can be used to clean the debris from the vents. Remove the vent cover and use a vacuum cleaner to remove any debris that has accumulated inside.
The Pilot Light
Check the pilot light on a regular basis, as it will tell you whether or not your furnace is working properly. The pilot light should be straight, solid, and bright blue in color. If it appears to be wavy, dim, or if the color is anything but blue (yellow, orange, or white, for example), you should call in a professional right away. Changes in the appearance of a pilot light indicate that something is definitely wrong with the system. The carbon dioxide may not be filtering out, for example. This issue needs to be addressed immediately.
The Exhaust Flue
You should also assess the exhaust flue regularly. This part of a gas furnace prevents noxious gasses, including carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide, from building up inside your home. If the exhaust flue is blocked, air won’t move freely from within the system to the exterior of your house. This could result in serious and potentially deadly health effects. Routinely inspect and clean the exhaust flue. If you can’t remove all built-up debris or if it appears damaged, call in a professional as soon as possible.
To Summarize
Routine furnace maintenance is vital for the comfort of your home and the safety of your family. Whether you’re doing the job yourself or you’re having a professional do it for you, the above are some of the most important steps involved in routine furnace care.
Air Care Heating and Air Conditioning – Residential & Commercial HVAC Services in Omaha & Council Bluffs
Air Care Heating and Air Conditioning is a full-service HVAC company located in Council Bluffs & Omaha. We know how important a well-functioning heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system is to your home or business, especially living in the Midwest. No matter what your heating and cooling needs, we provide a variety of heating and cooling HVAC services committed to exceeding your expectations with 100% customer satisfaction. Contact us today for your routine maintenance service, repairs, or installation requests -and let us show you the difference.