Furnace Maintenance Tips

 

Heating systems in American homes are quite expensive. For example, a furnace accounts for approximately 45% of the total energy bill. The most effective way to manage these expenses is to ensure that the furnace is running and operating efficiently. Experts indicate that furnace maintenance is a significant component of home improvement projects. This process can be challenging, especially for new homeowners. However, the following tips can assist in furnace maintenance.

Clean and Change the Air Filters

The filter enables the furnace to deliver warm air to different spaces in your house. It also supports the furnace’s efficiency. Cleaning the filters and replacing them whenever they are not functioning is a simple furnace maintenance tip. It saves the energy and resources that the furnace would consume if it works too hard to sustain airflow in the house.

Monitor the Pilot Light

The pilot light can give you an idea of the furnace’s performance. It demonstrates how gas is burning and whether it has the correct ratio. The standard color is blue. If you check the light and see any other color, you should understand that the furnace might have an issue. For instance, a yellow color might signify the release of excess carbon monoxide. Therefore, examining the pilot light as regularly as possible ensures that the furnace is running smoothly.

Clear the Drainage Tube

This maintenance tip applies to homeowners running propane or natural gas furnaces. In most cases, water is a by-product of these appliances. This water might drain into the drip pan if it fails to turn into steam. For this reason, the homeowner should ensure that the drainage tube is always clean and clear. You can use compressed air o white vinegar to eliminate the backed-up water and prevent it from damaging the flame sensor.

Schedule Regular Inspections

Conducting regular inspections for your furnace will help you avoid major issues. For example, the inspectors can identify a mechanical problem that an untrained person might not identify and then rectify it before it causes extreme damage.

Keep the Furnace Clean

Ensuring that this appliance is always clean is a practical maintenance tip. Use a damp cloth to remove dust and other debris from the blower and outside. The blower is close to the air filter and gets dirty easily. If you need any assistance on the blower’s location or how to clean it, you can consult the instructions manuals.

 

Conclusion

Furnace maintenance might seem tricky and scary, but it is not. Homeowners should focus on ensuring that their furnaces run smoothly to avoid high energy bills and maintain a steady flow of air in the houses. Various maintenance tips ensure that the furnace is not broken and serves you well during winter.

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