It’ Time for a Furnace Tune up and Maintenance Check.
Posted by Debi Skaggs on Wed, Sep 08, 2010 @ 01:49 PM
You’ll save energy and money by having your HVAC Contractor perform a furnace tune up and/or heat pump system check regularly. Changing filters is one of the key maintenance tasks you can do to keep your furnace running efficiently and prevent costly repairs.
Your furnace’s heat exchanger and air-conditioning coil have narrow, hard-to-reach passageways. When they get dirty, the efficiency of your heating and air conditioning system will suffer, and your equipment’s lifespan will be reduced.
When filters get clogged with dirt, airflow through the ducts is reduced and your air system’s performance and efficiency suffer. Without a filter, your blower, furnace, and air conditioning coil can get dirty.
Make sure that you know where your furnace filter is located and what size it is. Your filter is usually located in the return grill, in the main return near the furnace, or inside the furnace near the blower.
Inspect it periodically, and replace it when it is dirty. If you have a washable filter, clean it with soap and hot water. Homes that are off a dirt road, have animals living in them and/or use fireplaces frequently should check the filters at least once a month.
Other furnace maintenance tasks should be performed by a professional. Have a heating contractor perform the following cleaning chores and safety checks.
- Measure the furnace's combustion efficiency, and make the required adjustments.
- Monitor flue draft to ensure it removes combustion gases from the home under all conditions.
- Inspect the cooling coil
- Inspect the blower Components
- Check for cracks or holes in the heat exchanger.
- Monitor Volt & Amp draw
- Adjust gas pressure if necessary & inspect pilot
- Inspect & Test Safety Controls
- Inspect thermostat operations