In Oklahoma and states with similar climates, over 80% of households have a furnace to heat their homes. If you are in one of those households, you probably want your furnace to last a long time and efficiently heat your home.

Maintenance for a furnace is important if you want your furnace to run properly and safely. Let’s take a look at why it is so critical and how you can better maintain your furnace.

Why Is Maintenance for Your Furnace Important?

Keeping your furnace well maintained is very important. It keeps your system running efficiently. If your furnace has to work less hard, it won’t use as much energy, saving you money on your energy bills.

In addition, a well-maintained furnace will prolong the life of the furnace. If it’s maintained, a furnace can last between 15 and 20 years. You’ll also be able to catch problems before they turn into very expensive furnace repairs.

A benefit of maintaining your furnace that most people overlook is that it is important for your family’s health. A dirty furnace will circulate pollutants through your home’s air. 

Plus, during a maintenance inspection, your technician can check for and clean any possible contaminants such as mildew, mold, or dust.

DIY Maintenance for a Furnace

One of the easiest things you can do to maintain your HVAC system is to change your air filter regularly. A clogged air filter makes your furnace use more energy. Plus, it can decrease the air quality in your home.

Most should be replaced every one to three months, but you should check the furnace and filter manufacturers’ recommendations.

You should also regularly inspect and clean your heating system and the area around it. You can vacuum dirt and dust from the unit, but be very careful if you want to clean the inside of the furnace. This may be something better left to the professionals.

If you have a natural gas or propane furnace you may see some water coming out of the drainage tube. While this is normal, you should make sure the tube is clear and clean. 

In addition, you keep an eye on any changes that occur around your furnace. This is an easy way to spot a potential problem before it becomes a real issue.

Whenever you perform maintenance on your furnace you should make sure to take the appropriate safety precautions. The biggest one is to turn the power to the furnace off before you begin any maintenance.

In addition, if there is anything that needs to be done that is complicated or that you don’t feel comfortable doing, consider hiring a professional. 

Professional Furnace Maintenance

While there are many furnace maintenance tasks you can do yourself, occasionally you should have a professional inspect your heating system for furnace safety and proper function. An annual inspection and cleaning also ensure your manufacturer’s warranty remains intact.

While an annual service appointment can avoid problems with your furnace, having your HVAC system serviced twice a year by a professional is ideal. You can do this in the spring before you first use your air conditioner and in the fall before you use your furnace for the first time.

Keep Your Furnace Safe and Functional

Maintenance for a furnace is an important part of keeping your furnace safe and functional. It helps your furnace run efficiently, saving you money. Plus, you can sleep better knowing your family is breathing better quality air.

If you’re due for a furnace inspection, call Air Comfort, Inc. today to schedule your appointment.