There are several forms of furnace maintenance that you can perform on your own, but there are several that require the hands of a skilled technician. This guide walks you through the various maintenance tasks so you know which ones you can safely do on your own and when to call a professional.
Changing the Air Filter
The air filter on your furnace captures airborne pollutants before they circulate through the duct system and into each room. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, making the system work much harder than normal to keep the home comfortable. The equipment uses more energy, which can skyrocket your heating costs. It also endures unnecessary wear, increasing the risk of breakdowns during cold weather. Most experts recommend replacing the air filter every 30 to 90 days.
Wiping Down Air Vents
Over time, the air vents in your home get covered in dirt and dust. As air flows through the vents, it mixes with these elements, which can harm the home’s indoor air quality. Wiping the vents with a microfiber cloth once every 30 days is an excellent way to reduce airborne dust and improve airflow.
Testing the Thermostat
To test the thermostat, just raise the temperature a couple of degrees. If the furnace kicks on and runs through a normal heating cycle, that’s a good sign the thermostat is working properly. If you notice a delayed response or the home never reaches the set temperature, you may have a problem. It could be that the batteries in the thermostat are going dead or the device may need to be recalibrated. If you change the batteries and it doesn’t fix the problem, you should call a technician right away.
Scheduling Annual Tune-Ups
There are several forms of furnace maintenance that are always best left in the hands of a professional. Only a trained technician should inspect the wiring for loose connections and electrical damage. You don’t want to tackle this task yourself because you risk damaging the furnace or even electrocuting yourself.
Here are some other essential maintenance tasks that a professional will perform during annual tune-up visits:
- Checking the heat exchanger for cracks
- Cleaning the burners and flame sensor
- Making sure the ignition system works correctly
- Adding lubrication to moving components (motor bearings, blower bearings, and fan bearings)
- Testing all safety controls and limit switches
- Inspecting gas lines for leaks
If you stay on top of these maintenance tasks, your furnace is far less likely to break down when you need it most. Make sure to document all performed maintenance because you may need proof of routine service if you ever have to file a warranty claim. When you need furnace maintenance services in Lexington, KY, contact Absolute Services.