How to Maintain Your Furnace to Avoid Frequent Repairs

Owning a furnace is essential to ensuring comfort in your home, especially during the colder months. However, without proper maintenance, you may frequently call for repairs. At Advanced Cooling, we’ve been helping homeowners and businesses in Texas and Oklahoma maintain their heating systems since 2001. Our experience has shown us that regular attention can significantly extend the life of your furnace. Here’s what you can do to maintain your furnace and avoid frequent repairs:

Regularly Change the Air Filter

One of the simplest yet most crucial steps in maintaining your furnace is regularly changing its air filter. A clogged or dirty filter can restrict airflow, causing your furnace to work harder than necessary. This reduces its efficiency and can lead to increased wear and tear, resulting in more frequent repairs. Generally, changing your furnace filter every 1-3 months is recommended, depending on your usage and the type of filter you use.

Schedule Annual Inspections

Just like any other mechanical system, your furnace requires periodic professional inspections to ensure it’s running smoothly. An annual inspection by a qualified technician from Advanced Cooling can spot potential issues before they turn into costly repairs. During an inspection, we’ll check critical components such as the heat exchanger, blower motor, and electrical connections. This proactive approach can extend the life of your furnace and save you money in the long run.

Keep the Area Around Your Furnace Clean

Maintaining a clutter-free space around your furnace is essential for its efficient operation. Dust, debris, and other objects can obstruct the airflow or even become fire hazards. Additionally, ensure at least a three-foot clearance around the furnace to provide adequate ventilation and access for maintenance.

Check the Thermostat

Your thermostat plays a critical role in the performance of your furnace. If your thermostat isn’t working correctly, it can cause your furnace to cycle on and off too frequently, leading to unnecessary wear. Make sure to check the settings and replace the batteries as needed. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to improve efficiency and provide better control over your heating system.

Clean the Vents and Ductwork

Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in your home’s vents and ductwork, affecting the airflow and performance of your furnace. Regularly clean the vents and, if necessary, schedule a professional duct cleaning service. This will enhance your furnace’s efficiency and improve your home’s overall air quality.

Monitor the Pilot Light

For homes with older furnaces that use a pilot light, it’s essential to ensure that the light remains a consistent blue flame. A yellow or flickering light can indicate issues such as a problem with the gas supply or a dirty burner. If you notice any irregularities with the pilot light, contact a professional technician from Advanced Cooling immediately to avoid more severe issues.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Your furnace has many moving components that require proper lubrication to function smoothly. Refer to your furnace’s user manual to identify which parts need lubrication and use an appropriate lubricant. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing this task, it’s safer to leave it to one of our professional technicians.

Test the Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Furnaces, especially gas-powered ones, can potentially produce carbon monoxide—a dangerous, odorless gas. Ensure you have functional carbon monoxide detectors installed near your furnace and sleeping areas. Test them regularly to ensure they’re in working order as an extra layer of safety.

Conclusion

By following these simple yet effective maintenance tips, you can keep your furnace in optimal condition and minimize the need for frequent repairs. At Advanced Cooling, we pride ourselves on offering courteous, friendly, and affordable service to keep your heating and cooling systems running smoothly year-round. Whether you need routine maintenance, repairs, or a full replacement, our expert technicians are here to help.

Please get in touch with us for more information about our services or to schedule an appointment. We’re committed to ensuring comfort and satisfaction, making your home or business the perfect climate-controlled space.