Keeping Up with Key Maintenance
Furnace maintenance is essential to keep your furnace running smoothly and help prolong its life. By following a few simple tips, you can ensure that your furnace will run efficiently and provide you with years of reliable service. This blog will discuss some of the essential things about furnace maintenance. We will also give some helpful tips to make the process easier for you!
Changing Furnace Filters Regularly
One of the simplest yet most important furnace maintenance tasks you can do yourself is regularly changing the filter. A furnace filter does two main things: it protects the furnace blower by trapping dust and other particles so they don’t enter and damage the furnace, and it also helps improve indoor air quality by trapping allergens, pet dander, pollen, smoke particles, and other airborne contaminants.
Furnace filters should be changed at least once every three months, but if you have allergies or pets, you may need to change them more often. Some furnace filters can be washed and reused, while others need to be replaced. Check your furnace manufacturer’s recommendations before changing or cleaning the filter.
Cleaning Burners and Heat Exchangers
Another furnace maintenance task that you should do regularly is cleaning the burners and heat exchangers. The burners are where the furnace’s fuel is burned, and the heat exchangers are what transfer the heat from the burning fuel to the air that is circulated through your home.
If the burners or heat exchangers become dirty, they can become less efficient and may not work as well. In some cases, they can also become a fire hazard. To clean the burners:
- Turn off the furnace and remove the access panel.
- Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove any dirt or debris.
- Use a cotton swab dipped in furnace cleaner to clean around the burner ports.
- Replace the access panel and turn on the furnace.
To clean the heat exchangers, you will need to contact a professional furnace technician. They will be able to safely remove the heat exchangers and clean them so they are free of dirt and debris.
Inspecting and Replacing Belts
Another furnace maintenance task that should be done regularly is inspecting and replacing belts. The furnace’s blower has a belt that helps to keep it running smoothly. Over time, this belt can become worn out or damaged. If this happens, it can cause the furnace to run less efficiently or even overheat.
Remove the furnace’s access panel to inspect the belt and locate the blower. Then, check the condition of the belt. It will need to be replaced if it is cracked, frayed, or otherwise damaged. To do this, you will need to purchase a replacement belt from your local hardware store. Once you have the new belt, put it on the blower and reattach the access panel.
Checking the Gas Line
If you have a gas furnace, it is vital to check the gas line regularly. The gas line is what supplies the furnace with fuel. If there is a leak in the line, it can be dangerous. To check for leaks, turn off the furnace and smell around the gas line for any signs of a gas odor. If you detect a gas odor, call your local utility company or a professional furnace technician to come and fix the problem.
Furnace maintenance is essential to keeping your furnace running smoothly and prolonging its life. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your furnace will provide you with years of reliable service.
At Aire-Flo Heating, Cooling & Generators, our team is dedicated to providing you with the quality service you deserve. Call our furnace technicians at (614) 585-8944 or visit our website to get started.
