Furnace Maintenance Tips -Keep Your Furnace Running Strong
Your home furnace isn’t just a luxury; it is a lifeline that will help you make it through the harsh winter days. Your furnace system is important to your health and it should be carefully maintained to ensure maximum efficiency and longevity. Furnace maintenance is key!
Here are a few furnace maintenance tips you should know about
Work Under Safe Conditions
Before you start on the repairs, make sure you are working in safe conditions. Your furnace is fueled by electricity or gas and a misstep can result in an explosion or fire. Ensure that your furnace main power supply or gas valve is turned off. Before you start, check for gas leaks, which can be deadly and can cause fatal accidents. Natural gas, which is odorless, is often treated by gas supply companies with a chemical that gives it a smell of rotten eggs. Most importantly, if you detect that smell, get away from the furnace, evacuate your home and call GreenBox Home Services or a professional heating and cooling services technician.
Clean, Clean and Clean
As mentioned before,
the filter system needs to be cleaned regularly and replaced at least once every three months. This is because the filter traps dirt, dust, dander and debris; things that cause health problems. If your filter is clogged, it is time you replace it.
Additionally, after the air filter has been cleaned, your
blower assembly is next. The tiny dust particles that penetrate through the air filter usually get stuck on your blower. You will have to remove the panels to reach the blower. Use a damp cloth to clean the blower, its belts and pulleys. Additionally, you can use a non-acid cleanser to properly clean the component.
Furnace ducts can be damaged, especially if you have a forced air furnace. These ducts can be cleaned by using a vacuum cleaner. Once the furnace ducts have been cleaned, cover them up securely to prevent a draft from getting into the furnace.
Your
ventilation system can get clogged due to large dust particles. These can result in a lot of health hazards. After removing the vent cover, use a large brush and a vacuum cleaner to clean the inside of the vents.
Beware of Strange Noises
If you hear a strange rattling noise when you turn on your furnace, it is probably a loose panel, or an indication that the heat exchanger has cracked and is leaking gas. A low rumbling noise can simply mean the burner is covered with dirt and grime and needs to be cleaned. A squealing, screeching noise may mean the blower belt is loose or frayed and needs replacement. It can also mean that ball bearings are rusted and in need of lubrication. Lastly, a scraping sound can mean the ball bearings are almost worn out. If you hear any of these noises, call a heating and cooling service professional immediately.
Get A Proper Inspection
Unless you are a certified HVAC professional, chances are you are missing some of the things that are necessary to keep your furnace running. Make sure you get your furnace inspected yearly by
GreenBox Home Services and ensure all the necessary repairs are being made. This can ensure your furnace lasts a long time.