As the cold weather creeps in, it’s time to start preparing your home for winter. One of the most important things to take care of is your furnace. If you want to make sure your furnace lasts as long as possible, there are a few things you can do. Check out these creative ways to extend the life of your furnace.
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1. Schedule regular furnace maintenance to ensure it is working properly
Furnaces are an important part of many homes because they provide warmth during the cold winter months. However, furnaces can also be dangerous if they are not properly maintained. Every year, there are reports of house fires caused by faulty furnaces. While most of these incidents can be traced back to user error, such as failing to clean the furnace filter, some may be due to a lack of maintenance. Schedule regular furnace maintenance to ensure it is working properly and to reduce the risk of fire. A qualified technician will inspect the furnace and make any necessary repairs or adjustments. They will also clean the burners and blowers and check for leaks in the flue pipe. By scheduling regular maintenance, you can rest assured that your furnace is safe and operating at peak efficiency.
2. Change your furnace filter every month for optimal performance
The furnace filter helps to trap dirt, dust, and other contaminants, preventing them from being circulated throughout the house. It’s important to change the furnace filter regularly—ideally, every month—to maintain optimal performance. A clogged or dirty furnace filter can cause several problems, including reduced airflow, reduced heating efficiency, and an increased risk of fire. By changing the filter every month, you can help to ensure that your furnace runs smoothly and efficiently all winter long.
3. Clean the blower wheel and housing unit every few months
The blower wheel and housing unit are two important components that often get overlooked. However, these parts also need to be cleaned regularly, especially if you have a lot of dust in your home. The blower wheel is responsible for blowing air through the housing unit, so it must be free of dust and debris. Otherwise, the airflow will be restricted and your fan won’t work as well. The housing unit is also susceptible to dust buildup, so it’s important to clean it regularly as well. A simple way to do this is to vacuum the unit with the attachment hose. Every few months, you should also disassemble the unit and clean all of the parts with soapy water. By taking these steps, you can extend the life of your ceiling fan and ensure that it works properly for years to come.
4. Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks or other damage
Homeowners should inspect the heat exchanger in their furnace regularly. The heat exchanger is a chamber that contains the combustion process and transfers heat from the burning fuel to the circulating air. A cracked heat exchanger can release carbon monoxide into the home, posing a serious health risk. Homeowners should look for signs of cracking, such as rust or soot, and have the furnace serviced by a qualified technician if any damage is found. By taking this simple step, homeowners can help protect themselves and their families from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.
5. Tighten all the screws and bolts on the furnace cabinet
One important step in furnace maintenance is tightening all of the screws and bolts on the cabinet. This will help to prevent any parts from coming loose and falling off, which could lead to a fire. In addition, it is important to check the filters and clean them regularly. Clogged filters can cause the furnace to overheat and break down. By taking these simple steps, you can help to keep your furnace running smoothly for years to come.
6. Replace the thermostat batteries at least once a year
One of the most important pieces of equipment in your home is your thermostat. This small device helps to regulate the temperature in your home, keeping you comfortable throughout the year. However, like all electronic devices, thermostats require occasional maintenance. One of the most important tasks is to replace the batteries at least once a year. This simple step will help to ensure that your thermostat continues to function properly. In addition, it is a good idea to clean the thermostat regularly. Dust and dirt can build up over time, interfere with the sensors, and cause the device to have inaccurate readings. By taking a few minutes to perform some basic maintenance, you can help keep your thermostat working properly for years to come.