10 Gas Furnace Maintenance Tips

Nowadays, gas furnaces are one of the commonest electrical gadgets that are found in almost every household. Much to the delight of the users, furnaces are fairly easy to maintain and operate. However, just like every other technological device, furnaces do require periodic maintenance from time to time to remain in proper working condition. In lack of proper maintenance, gas furnaces can be quite dangerous which enhances the need of servicing even further. Here, in this article, we are going to take a closer look at ten most effective gas furnace maintenance tips:

      1)- Gas Leaks: The first and most important thing that has to be done is to check thoroughly for gas leaks. Leaks are easy to trace, you can detect leaks from the odor of gas coming from the body of the furnace. Smaller leaks can be fixed manually but for bigger leaks, it is always wise to hire a professional to get it fixed.

      2)- Thermostat Setting: If the thermostat does not work to its fullest ability, the furnace may not be able to warm up the rooms properly. So, check the thermostat settings from time to time to ensure that it is set at a proper temperature.

      3)- Control Valve: If your furnace suddenly stops producing heat, by most chances, the problem lies in your furnace’s control valve. If the control valve somehow gets switched off, the furnace is not going to generate heat.

      4)- Air Filter: Cleaning and replacing the air filter is an extremely vital part of furnace maintenance that must be done regularly. A choked air filter not only hinders performance but leaves a negative impact on the furnace as well. Air filters are fairly inexpensive and can be virtually found in almost every hardware store.

      5)- Furnace Body: With time, both the interior and exterior of the furnaces accumulate dust particles, oil and debris. That’s why cleaning the body of the furnace is so important.

      6)- Tension Belt: In case your furnace is making a loud noise, the faulty tension belt can be a possible cause. In such cases, lubricate the belt and if the problem persists, change the belt.

      7)- Pilot Light: Remember that if the pilot light goes out of order, your furnace is just not going to work. So, if the device stops functioning suddenly, check whether the pilot lights are working or not. Ideally, a pilot light should be deep blue; any other color is a clear indication that the light is faulty.

      8)- Motor: Furnace motors generally come with a prolonged warranty and so you really do not have to look into the technical aspects of the furnace motors. However, to ensure uninterrupted functioning of the furnace motor, oil and grease it from time to time.

      9)- Venting: The venting passages must be checked regularly for debris and blockages. Remember that if the ventilation is choked, it could lead to deadly health hazard like carbon monoxide poisoning.

      10)- Shutting Off: When not in use, furnaces should be switched off. So, after the winters are over, change the air filters, clean the furnace and shut it off.