Comprehensive furnace maintenance allows your heating unit to function efficiently and effectively during the cold months. As winter approaches, you can schedule a furnace repair technician to inspect your heating system. They can identify and fix any underlying issues, such as dirty filters or broken thermostats. Here are some furnace maintenance tips to help you prepare for winter:
Change or Clean the Air Filter
A dirty filter restricts airflow, which can strain the heating system and lead to a premature malfunction. Changing or cleaning the air filter in your furnace helps eliminate the filth and restore efficient functioning. If the filter is washable, the technician may use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove loose dust and debris.
An HVAC technician can change and provide a new air filter for your furnace. They can show you the proper way to install the filter and recommend suitable filters for your furnace type, such as pleated or high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. After installation, the technician may conduct a brief check to verify that the heating system functions correctly and that no issues resulted from the filter replacement.
Check the Thermostat
A properly functioning thermostat allows your heating system to operate efficiently and according to your set preferences. During a furnace repair appointment, a technician can look for any signs of damage, such as a cracked or dirty screen. The technician can demonstrate how to clean the thermostat’s display and components. They can also adjust the temperature setting to the desired level, turning it up to activate the heating system for inspection.
If you have concerns about the thermostat’s accuracy, the technician can calibrate or adjust it. If you have an older, non-programmable thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. These newer thermostats offer more precise control over your heating system and can lead to energy savings. They allow you to set different temperatures for when you’re at home, sleeping, or at work. Smart thermostats can be controlled remotely through a mobile app, making it easier to manage your home’s temperature from anywhere.
Clean the Furnace
Dust and debris can accumulate around and inside your furnace over time, potentially causing the system to struggle to warm your home. Hire a skilled technician to inspect the furnace for accumulated debris and visible wear on components. The technician can use a professional-grade vacuum cleaner with a hose and brush attachments to vacuum the furnace’s interior. They can focus on areas where dust is more likely to accumulate, such as the heat exchanger, burners, and blower assembly. Cleaning the burners enables proper combustion and reduces the risk of soot buildup.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Older furnaces with oil ports and sleeve bearings may need lubrication, while newer models often have sealed, maintenance-free components. If your furnace has moving parts requiring lubrication, contact a technician to lubricate them for you. Standard components that may require lubrication include blower motors and fan bearings.
To access the lubrication points, the technician may need to remove covers or panels from the furnace. The technician can clean the area around the lubrication points to remove dirt and debris, preventing contaminants from entering the lubrication points. Once lubrication is complete, the technician will reassemble the furnace by returning the covers or panels they removed earlier.
Inspect Vents and Ducts
Starting with a visual inspection of all the vent covers in your home, a technician can look for signs of dust, debris, or other obstructions. They can examine the area around each vent to determine that no furniture, curtains, or other items obstruct the airflow. They may suggest repositioning or rearranging items accordingly for optimal airflow. After the inspection and maintenance, the technician can turn on the heating system to determine if warm air flows freely from the vents. This process confirms that the airflow is unrestricted and that the system operates effectively.
Hire a Reliable Technician for Furnace Repair and Inspection
Proper maintenance and timely repairs can help extend the lifespan of your furnace, potentially saving you money on early replacements. Technicians can modify settings and perform tune-ups to maximize your furnace’s efficiency. During furnace repair, they can also fix or replace malfunctioning components to restore optimal functioning. Schedule an appointment with an experienced HVAC technician to inspect and make any furnace repairs or adjustments before winter.
Originally posted 2023-11-01 08:52:07.