Furnace Cleaning

The furnace in your home can be an important aspect of how comfortable you are indoors. A properly-working furnace will keep things warm and safe during the cold times of the year, and if it is well maintained you won't have to worry as much about problems arising and causing discomfort.

Over time, dirt can get into your furnace and prevent it from working at its highest efficiency. If this occurs, you will need to clean the furnace and its components in order to restore its former functionality. As a general rule, it is a good idea to have your furnace checked and given a thorough cleaning at the beginning of the cold season. This will help you to be sure that your furnace will run correctly and do its job when you need it the most.

When cleaning the furnace, there are a few areas that you should focus on:

• Start by turning off the power to the furnace, and turning off the natural gas before you begin cleaning.
• Check the filter. If it looks clogged up and dirty, it's definitely time to replace it or wash it out. A dirty filter can prevent the furnace from doing its job efficiently. Depending on the filter type you choose, you may need to wash or replace it ever few months.
• Inspect the furnace blower. This can be found behind the filter. Look for areas that may be clogged up with dirt or debris. You can unscrew parts of the blower to more easily have access to them. Wipe out the blower parts using a rag.
• Use the attachments on your vacuum to suck up any loose debris you find in the furnace area. Look at the condition of the fan belts and determine whether or not they could need replacing.
• If the air vents in your home have a build-up of dust and particles, you may want to hire a professional duct cleaner to clean this out. This could be the cause of allergies and respiratory problems, so it is important to check this area once in a while.
• Replace the parts of your furnace. Turn on the power and gas again. You may want to test the furnace to ensure it is now working properly.

Remember to give your furnace the proper cleaning to ensure your home stays at the right temperature and works in an efficient manner.