A furnace is a big investment, which is why it is important to keep your furnace working in top condition throughout the year. With regular maintenance, you can maintain your furnace’s efficiency, save it from breakdowns, improve its lifespan, and reduce energy and repair costs. Doing minor furnace maintenance and repairs yourself can help you save expensive repair costs and keep your system running efficiently. So let’s get into the DIY furnace maintenance tips you need to know.
To learn more or schedule professional HVAC maintenance in St. Louis, contact the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons.
DIY Furnace Maintenance Tips: The Basics
The following are some important furnace maintenance tips that you can follow regularly to keep your furnace in top condition.
- Switch out your furnace filter: Your furnace filter is one of the most important components of your furnace, and it is constantly doing a lot of the heavy lifting during months of high use. Over time, the furnace filter can get clogged up, and this can disrupt your airflow. A dirty filter also affects your energy bills, which can add up in the long run. It is best to change your filter every two months or once a month during high use. Follow the recommendations in your manufacturer’s manual for the best results.
- Clean the Burners: As your furnace generates a lot of heat, there is a chance that clogged-up dirt and debris can catch fire within the combustion chamber. We suggest that you vacuum your burners every once in a while to avoid any potential hazards. To get started, turn off your furnace and the gas supply, and use a 20" length of 1/2" drain line to connect to your vacuum hose. This ensures that you can reach behind the burners and vacuum effectively in or near the burners, the base of the furnace, and the blower compartment.
- Check your burner flames: The color of your burner flame can reveal if there is a potential leak or dirt accumulation in your burners. To check this, start by turning the power off. Then remove the combustion chamber door and then turn the power back on and engage the thermostat. You can then see the burner flame color – if it is blue and burning evenly, then your furnace is functioning fine; if the color of the flame is yellow, it could indicate a carbon monoxide leak or that your burners are dirty. If you suspect a leak, be sure to contact a professional for help.
- Perform regular blower maintenance: In your furnace system, the blower has the task of moving the hot air through the ducts and vents. To ensure proper circulation of air in your home, it is essential to keep the blower clean. To get started, turn off the power and unscrew the blower from the system. Use a vacuum or brush to clean the blower blades and replace them. Ensure that you do not disturb the surrounding parts of the system.
- Ensure proper lubrication: In the furnace system, there are several motor and blower shaft bearings that need to be lubricated annually. Doing so ensures that all parts of your unit operate smoothly and delays the natural wear and tear that accompanies heavy use. To lubricate, use a lightweight motor oil and add a few drops to these parts.
- Seal leaks: It is also necessary to check for any damage to the vents and ductwork of your furnace system. If you do notice any leaks, use a metal tape or heat-resistant silicone to seal the leaks.
- Check the flame sensor: The flame sensor is perhaps one of the most significant parts of your furnace unit. It looks like a thin, bent metal rod that is positioned in front of the flame stream. To inspect it, you should disengage it from the bracket and gently clean any dust and debris off it.
Of course, there are other components of furnace maintenance that need to be done regularly, such as checking the drive belt, inspecting the pilot and hot surface igniter, and checking the exhaust pipes. But, instead of relying on DIY furnace maintenance tips, it is best to leave this work to the professionals. Schedule professional furnace maintenance regularly, and you can rest assured that your system is working in the best condition.
Contact Galmiche & Sons for Effective Furnace Maintenance in St. Louis
If you are looking for trusted professionals to help you with your furnace maintenance, Galmiche & Sons is perfect for you. Our experts have assisted homeowners in the St. Louis area for many years with all things HVAC and always prioritize high-quality work. Schedule an appointment with us today for HVAC maintenance or contact us to learn more.
