Poorly maintained furnaces are more likely to have gas leaks and other hazardous problems, like the creation of carbon monoxide. These and other reasons make maintaining your furnace a good idea, so we’ve put together this short guide on keeping it in top condition.
Keep an eye on the control valve.
Most furnaces have a control valve for safety purposes. This is one of the first locations to check if your furnace isn’t producing heat. The control valve is found on the supply pipe of a gas furnace. Verify that gas can enter your furnace and that this valve is in the “on” position. Your furnace cannot generate heat if there is nothing to burn.
Maintain clean vents
Scheduling a professional duct cleaning job every few years is wise, especially if you have pets or an older property. Get your ducts inspected for leaks or mold growth and for effective dust and dander removal.
However, you don’t need to hire an expert constantly to keep your vents clean. Take off the covers from your air vents once a year and use your vacuum attachment to give them a thorough cleaning. This removal of extra debris and dust will improve your interior air quality.
Examine the air filter.
It’s critical to replace your furnace air filters routinely. They help to avoid allergies and airborne diseases while maintaining optimal indoor air quality. But when air filters gather dust and debris, they will lose some of their capacity to purify the air, and your furnace will have to work more to force air through the filters. This means higher energy expenses and less constant air conditioning throughout your house. There’s no reason not to change furnace air filters regularly—they’re cheap and easy to do.
Lubricate the motor
Add a few drops of oil to the furnace motor when needed and for each season. Avoid using too much oil.
Ensure the proper operation of your thermostat.
Your furnace won’t be able to operate as it should if your thermostat isn’t working correctly. Dirt and incorrect calibration can adversely affect a thermostat’s performance. Seek expert furnace service and have a technician examine your HVAC system to guarantee that your thermostat is calibrated correctly.
Inspect the tension belt.
Your house furnace may be operating loudly due to a misplaced tension belt. If the old belt seems worn out or tattered, get a new one.
Examine your pilot light.
Occasionally, checking the pilot light is one way to ensure that your gas furnace operates suitably. Everything is OK if your pilot light is blazing blue. However, a pilot light that is blazing yellow or another color indicates a problem and must be examined by a specialist.
Clean and free the area around the unit
It’s crucial to let enough airflow pass around these units. Keep your outdoor units clear of any bushes, tall grass, or other vegetation, as this will lower efficiency by obstructing airflow into and out of the unit.
Conclusion
Sticking to this maintenance checklist will enhance the efficiency of your furnace and prolong its life.