The daily demands of homeownership can make it easy to forget about your furnace, but neglecting to maintain your heating and air conditioning system can have serious consequences. DIY and professional heating and cooling maintenance is the best way to avoid the hassle and expense of major HVAC repairs, such as system breakdowns. Furthermore, a happy furnace also means a healthier, safer home!
Here are a few simple furnace maintenance hacks guaranteed to save you time and money:
Change the filter
Did you know that your furnace filter plays a big role in how well your furnace functions? Dirty or clogged furnace filters will cause your furnace to run inefficiently, using more fuel that necessary to operate. In addition, a dirty furnace filter has a direct impact on your home’s overall air quality. This is especially important for those with asthma, allergies, and other kinds of respiratory problems.
Air filters help to remove irritants from the air such as pollen, dust, animal danger, fungi spores, and other impurities that can trigger an immune response. On average, furnace filters should be changed every 60 to 90 days, though homes with pets or allergy sufferers may want to do so more frequently.
Clean vents
Keeping the vents and the furnace itself clean is a great way to improve your home’s air quality and lower the risk of a breakdown in the future. You can remove dirt, dust, and grime from your vents simply by wiping them clean with a damp cloth or using a vacuum with a long nozzle attachment. Similarly, it’s important to keep your furnace clean. You can do this by using either a damp cloth or a vacuum to clean the blower blades and the sides. Before cleaning your furnace, allow it to cool and be sure to turn off the circuit breaker that provides it with power.
Schedule a seasonal tune up
A breakdown during heating soon can be dangerous, especially for households with infants, young children, or seniors. Scheduling a seasonal tune up before the starting of heating season can help you avoid the inconvenience of a breakdown and ensures your system is in good working order. Similarly, scheduling a professional tune up before the official start of cooling season is also recommended, especially for older systems that are nearing the end of their lifespan. A professional HVAC service has the experience and skills necessary to identify furnace problems before they become serious issues.
Maintaining your heating and cooling system ensures that it continues running efficiently and safely, while also improving your indoor air quality. A few simple maintenance steps can help you save time and money while going a long way to support the health of your household.