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Whether you have an older or a newer home, you rely heavily on your furnace. With one flick of a switch or a touch of a button on your thermostat, you can instantly turn the temperature up and down to get the perfect amount of heat. Knowing how to maintain your furnace can help you keep that system in good working condition and reduce the need for future repairs. Calling an HVAC technician to your home can leave you facing some expensive repair bills, but there are a few things you can do to take care of your furnace yourself.
Look for Debris
One of the most important components of your furnace is the blower. The blower is what pushes the warm air through the vents or ducts to reach other areas of your home. Any type of debris, including dust and pet hair, lodged in the vents or around the blower can prevent it that flow of air. To check for debris, turn off the furnace and examine the space around the blower. If you have an upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can use that to gently remove the debris before turning the system back on.
Check for Gas Leaks
Many older homes rely on natural gas furnaces that can produce gas leaks. Even the smallest of leaks can leave you, your pets and your family sick. Providers of natural gas now place a small amount of scent into the gas. As natural gas lacks any odor, this lets you know if you have a leak. You can also install gas detectors around your home. This detectors constantly monitor the air for any signs of gas and informs you of leaks with a loud beeping noise and/or a flashing light.
Replace the Filter
You must replace the filter on your furnace on a regular basis. Manufacturers recommend that you replace the filter after spending any extended period of time inside your home. The cold temperatures that winter brings will leave you spending more time inside. This can leave more hair and debris lingering in the air and going through the filter. Your Filter Connection and similar sites give you access to a wide range of filters, including a 3M air filter that might work on your furnace. Replacing the filter, removing debris and checking for gas leaks can extend the life of your furnace and improve the health and safety of your family.
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