Part 5: Furnace Maintenance: Essential Tips to Keep Your System Running Smoothly

In our five-part furnace buying guide series, we’ve covered a lot of ground, from when to replace to sizing, types of furnaces, and who to trust to install them. 

📁 Download our 2024 Furnace Buying Guide ➡️

Lastly, we’ll wrap this up with one of the most important elements of owning a furnace: preventative maintenance. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! 

Keeping your furnace in top-notch condition ensures your home stays warm and comfortable during the colder months. Regular maintenance can also help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs. The following are some essential tips to keep your furnace running smoothly: 

Common Furnace Issues 

Understanding common furnace problems can help you address issues before they become serious. In the following, we’ll look at the most common issues and their solutions: 

1. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters 

• Problem: Reduced airflow and efficiency. 
• Solution: Check and replace your furnace filter every 1 to 3 months, especially during peak usage times. 

2. Pilot Light or Ignition Control Issues 

• Problem: Furnace won’t start or stay running. 
• Solution: Ensure the pilot light is lit and blue. If it isn’t, consult a professional for ignition control issues. 

3. Wear and Tear on Blower Motor, Belts, and Bearings: 

• Problem: Unusual noise or poor performance. 
• Solution: Listen for strange noises and schedule regular inspections to replace worn parts. 

4. Thermostat Malfunctions: 

• Problem: Inability to control temperature. 
• Solution: Check thermostat settings and batteries. Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for better control. 

5. Lack of Regular Maintenance: 

• Problem: Overall system inefficiency and increased risk of breakdowns. 
• Solution: Follow a regular maintenance schedule and call-in professionals for annual check-ups. 

Regular Maintenance Tasks You Can DIY 

Although many furnace maintenance tasks should be left to the professionals, here are a few tasks you can safely handle on your own: 

Replace Air Filters: 

• Frequency: Every 1 to 3 months. 
• Benefit: Ensures efficient airflow and reduces strain on the system. 

Inspect Vents and Registers: 

• Frequency: Monthly. 
• Benefit: Keeps airflow unobstructed and prevents dust buildup. 

Check Thermostat Settings: 

• Frequency: Seasonally. 
• Benefit: Ensures your home stays at the desired temperature without unnecessary energy use. 

Clean Around the Furnace: 

• Frequency: Monthly. 
• Benefit: Prevents dust and debris from entering the system. 

The Importance of Professional Maintenance 

Although DIY maintenance is important and there are many things we can do on our own, there’s no substitute for a professional’s expertise and touch. Professional maintenance offers several additional benefits. They include the following: 

Comprehensive Inspection: 

• Our professionals check all components, including the heat exchanger, blower motor, and ignition system. This is essential for functioning and safety! 

Efficiency Testing: 

• Our local HVAC technicians perform efficiency tests to ensure your furnace is running at peak performance. We ensure the utmost efficiency from your equipment! 

Safety Checks: 

• Again, our professionals ensure there are no carbon monoxide leaks or other safety issues to keep your heating system safe all winter long! 

Expert Repairs: 

• Addressing minor issues before they become major problems saves you time and money. Since we are already at your home, we can usually button up minor stuff that same day at a discounted rate. 

How Proper Maintenance Prolongs Furnace Lifespan and Improves Efficiency 

Consistent maintenance can significantly prolong the life of your furnace and keep it running efficiently. The following are just a few of the added perks: 

Reduced Wear & Tear: 

• Regularly replacing filters and inspecting parts minimizes the stress on your furnace. Maintenance, in short, pays for itself over time. 

Optimal Performance: 

• Clean and well-maintained components work together more efficiently, reducing energy consumption. 

Fewer Breakdowns: 

• Preventative maintenance helps our professionals identify these potential issues before they lead to costly repairs down the road. 

In Conclusion

Taking the time to maintain your furnace can save you money and ensure your home stays warm all winter long. Although there are several tasks you can handle yourself, don’t underestimate the value of professional maintenance. Our team always stands by to help you get the most out of your heating system. 

Are you ready to boost your furnace’s performance?  

If so, schedule an appointment with our local certified furnace technician today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your furnace is in expert hands.