Your furnace is your home’s best friend during winter. It keeps your house warm and comfortable. So, it is necessary to keep your furnace in its best condition. This can be possible by following a proper furnace maintenance checklist. It includes checking and replacing the air filter, checking thermostat settings, cleaning vents, and testing carbon monoxide detectors. Inspect the flame color, clear the area around the furnace, and schedule a professional tune-up.
Furnace Maintenance Checklist to Follow
Here’s what you need to do during winter:
Inspect and Replace the Air Filter
The furnace air filter is vital for good indoor air quality and operation. Over time, dust, dirt, and other allergens build up on the filter, constricting airflow and making work harder.
- What to do: In winter, the filter should be checked every 30 days. If it is dirty or blocked, replace it immediately. A high-quality filter designed provides the greatest efficiency.
- Pro Tip: If you or your family members have allergies, you might want to upgrade to a HEPA filter.
Check the Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat controls the temperature level and efficiency with which your house is heated. Incorrect settings contribute to higher bills and an unbearable home.
- What to do: Ensure it is set to the “heat” mode and programmed to maintain a comfortable temperature. Engage a smart thermostat to adjust heating cycles accordingly and save energy when absent.
- Pro Tip: Avoid placing the thermostat near heat sources or direct sunlight; otherwise, it will not accurately report temperatures.
Clean Vents and Registers
Dirty vents and registers can prevent proper airflow, causing uneven heating in your home and affecting indoor air quality.
- What to do: Vacuum all the vents and registers, making sure nothing, such as furniture, rug, or curtain, blocks them. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush on its head to eliminate all dust and dirt.
- Pro Tip: Have professionals clean the ducts if the vent is filthy.
Test the Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Furnaces that burn natural gas or oil sometimes produce carbon monoxide (CO) if they aren’t running right. Silent and invisible, this chemical can be dangerous if it enters your house.
- What to do: Have your carbon monoxide detectors tested monthly. Ensure fresh batteries and the detector are installed on every floor of your house.
- Pro Tip: Whenever your CO detector goes off, evacuate immediately and contact a professional furnace inspection to have your furnace checked.
Inspect the Furnace Flame
The color of your furnace flame can say a lot about how your system is working. Burning steady blue is all right while flickering yellow suggests probable defects.
- What to do: Find the furnace access panel and view the flame. If it is yellow or unstable, call a professional to check the burner and diagnose it.
- Pro Tip: Never fix the burner independently since it can be dangerous without proper training.
Check the Blower Motor
The blower motor circulates warm air into your home. A malfunctioning motor can lead to a failure of hot air or uneven heating.
- What to do: Inspect the blower motor for dust and debris. Clean it with caution. If it appears worn, have a professional correct the problem.
- Pro Tip: Keep the space around your furnace clean and clear of clutter for safe airflow conduct.
Keep the Area Around the Furnace Clear
Your furnace also requires sufficient space for ventilation and to operate safely. Keeping things stored close to the unit is a fire hazard.
- What to do: Ensure at least three feet around are free from obstructions. Store flammable materials elsewhere.
- Tip: Use the open space around your furnace to store maintenance tools and extra filters.
Ensure Proper Humidity Levels
Dry winter air can reduce comfort and defeat heating system efficiency. An excessively dry operating environment can also hinder productivity.
- What to do: Install a humidifier to maintain 30-50% indoor humidity. Check if your furnace has a built-in humidifier and ensure it is operating correctly.
- Pro Tip: Proper humidity levels also protect your wooden furniture and floor wooden parts from becoming too dry.
Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
Regular DIY maintenance is essential, but a professional tune-up will find issues that are not easily noticeable and help your furnace last longer.
- What to do: Have an annual inspection by a licensed HVAC technician. They will inspect the heat exchanger, burners, safety controls, and other important components.
- Pro Tip: Schedule your tune-up before the winter season starts to avoid peak-season delays.
Reasons for Furnace Maintenance During Winter
- Prevent Breakdowns: Prevents sudden breakdowns during the peak usage season.
- Improves Efficiency: Saves energy as it runs more efficiently.
- Safety Improvement: Prevents hazardous issues like carbon monoxide leaks.
- Extends Lifespan: Proper maintenance prolongs the life of your heating system.
- Consistent Comfort: Ensures reliable and even heating throughout your home during the cold months.
Conclusion
Regular furnace maintenance during winter is essential for preventing breakdowns, improving efficiency, and enhancing safety by checking for carbon monoxide leaks.. Inspecting key components, keeping the area clear, and scheduling professional tune-ups ensure your furnace operates reliably and efficiently, providing consistent comfort and extending its lifespan for many winters.