Among the many ways to keep warm in winter, furnaces are perhaps the most popular method homeowners keep cozy. Despite the many shapes, models and types of furnaces, all of them share this in common: they must be cleaned and maintained to maximize their efficiency and overall performance. Regular maintenance can also preserve your warranties. We’ve compiled our favorite tips from over the years to make sure you keep your high efficiency furnace going!
- A constantly cycling furnace may be a faulty thermostat. Faulty thermostats sending “mixed messages” to furnaces can cause big problems when it comes to the efficiency of your furnace. Fixing or replacing may be a simple, cost effective fix for your heating woes.
- Service your furnace annually. Out of sight should not mean out of mind! These workhorses perform nearly year round. Call a professional to have your furnace serviced once per year; unmaintained or neglected furnaces can lead to costly problems.
- Don’t wait until it gets cold for maintenance. Consider the off-season or during your “spring cleaning” months, when appointments are more readily available than when furnaces are needed most. Many professionals run specials and manufacturers offer rebates and incentives during warmer months; take advantage of it.
- A furnace runs leaner when it’s kept cleaner. Maximize your furnace’s efficiency and overall heating capability by cleaning it. When you hire a professional for regular service, cleaning the unit is part of the inspection and maintenance checklist.
- “Calendarize” your filter replacement dates. Different types of filters have different time use periods, so take time to learn your furnace’s filter needs. Most standard filters should be replaced every 1 to 2 months. Set a filter replacement calendar alert on your phone. A clogged filter can cause a lot of problems for a gas furnace, reducing its efficiency and lifespan, and compromising the quality of the air circulating in your home.
- Check your furnace belts. Worn or frayed belts should be red flags during furnace maintenance and should both be replaced. A professional doing the service check will recommend belt replacements if needed. A broken belt can quickly lead to costly repairs.
- Some furnaces require special lubrication. Although many furnace models today are permanently lubricated and sealed, some require regular lubrication and ignoring this step could be extremely harmful to the furnace’s long-term performance and overall efficiency.
- Shut off the furnace power supply prior to maintenance. Don’t take shortcuts. At your main electrical panel, switch off the appropriate circuit breaker or remove the fuse that supplies power to the furnace. If you’re not sure what leads to where on your fuse box, be safe and shut off the power supply to the entire house. Have a flashlight handy.
- Gas furnaces need their CO levels checked. As part of a regular maintenance, a gas furnace technician will check your furnace for Carbon Monoxide (CO) gas levels. Heat exchangers in gas furnaces can develop cracks over time, through which CO gas is released. Ensure your home is safe from these harmful exhaust gases with a simple checkup.
- Don’t be afraid to call in the pros. Furnace maintenance and cleaning packages are widely available through service providers, suppliers and contractors. You may be able to avoid those dreaded larger replacement or furnace repair bills if things aren’t taken care of properly on your own. Don’t be left out in the cold.
For a limited time, BelRed is offering 50% off a new furnace or a FREE home sanitation system with the purchase of an ultra-efficient cooling heat pump (not combinable with other offers). Mention you saw this offer on the blog to get started.
Enjoy a clean, effective and efficient furnace for years to come. BelRed offers comprehensive precision HVAC maintenance for all types of furnaces and heating systems. Contact us to schedule a visit today!
