Show Your Furnace Some Tlc With Annual Maintenance
Your furnace is just like everything else: it needs a little TLC (tender
, loving, care) in order to function at its full capacity. But more than likely you are probably like most people and avoid dealing with your furnace until it suddenly stops working. The problem with this is that you end up spending unnecessary dollars on costly repairs or replacements.
So, do not do it. Do not deny your heater what it needs to function effectively and efficiently all year round!
Annual Furnace Inspection Includes:
Thorough cleaning of burners and all air ports.
Oiling of the motor.
Thermostat operation test.
Replace oil filter and/or oil-filled systems.
Draining of the expansion tank
Examination of all parts to ensure they are working properly including blower blades and belt, check dampers, and replace filters (forced air system).
Verification of leaks in pipes, flue, and firebox.
Cleaning of the stack and smoke pipes.
An Uninspected Furnace Can Leak Deadly Gases
Keep in mind that a yearly furnace inspection should always be conducted by a professional technician and experts say the best time to have this done is the beginning of the winter season. It is essential that you have this done because an uninspected furnace that burns oil or gas can leak carbon monoxide which is deadly. In fact, it has been reported that nearly 200 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning!
You can also regularly clean your furnace if you do not want to pay for ongoing maintenance. Dirt is the biggest enemy of your furnace and can waste fuel and drastically lower efficiency. If you are going to clean the dirt out on your own make sure you remove waste from the filter, blower and motor.