13 Oct 7 Easy Furnace Maintenance Tips for Common Furnace Issues
A properly functioning furnace is critical during cold weather, especially in Maryland. Your furnace’s efficiency ensures a warm and comfortable home during chilly fall nights and cold winter days. Falling behind on furnace maintenance puts you, your family, and your home at risk of cold interior weather and freezing pipes.
To stay ahead of furnace repairs and ensure your furnace is operating at full function, you want to be aware of common furnace issues and what easy ways you can repair or maintain your HVAC unit. We break down the 7 easiest furnace maintenance tips all homeowners should know and how to stay aware of common furnace issues before you need a total HVAC replacement.
Stay comfortable all season long with expert HVAC tips from Shamrock.
Easy Furnace Maintenance Tips to Stay Ahead of Furnace Repairs
1. Clean or Replace Your Air Filter
The air filter in your furnace plays a vital role in maintaining indoor air quality and your unit’s efficiency. Over time, dust and debris accumulate, clogging the filter. Regularly inspect and clean or replace it to keep the air flowing smoothly and help your furnace run efficiently.
Common Issue: You can identify your need for an air filter replacement based on a harder running unit, less efficiency, and higher energy bills
2. Check and Clean the Blower
A clean blower ensures that the warm air is distributed evenly throughout your home. Dust and debris can accumulate on the blower wheel, affecting its performance. Make it a habit to clean the blower and its components regularly. This will ensure a smooth-running furnace and cut back on HVAC repairs.
Common Issue: Your blower will need to be checked and cleaned when you notice uneven heating, less heating, and a harder working unit. A visual inspection is the fastest way to avoid these issues.
3. Inspect the Thermostat
The thermostat is the brain of your heating system. Every year, check to make sure it’s in good working order by checking the accuracy of the temperature readings. If your thermostat begins to have issues, you want to update it quickly so the proper directions are being sent to your furnace, avoiding unexpected malfunctions.
Common Issue: Thermostats are prone to dying out or having their batteries need to be replaced with frequent use. Always check the thermostat before assuming an issue with your HVAC unit.
4. Lubricate Moving Parts
Proper lubrication of your furnace’s moving parts, such as the motor, can significantly extend your system’s lifespan and reduce overall wear and tear. Consult your manufacturer’s manual to determine the type of lubricant required and how often it should be applied. If you’re unsure, your local HVAC company can assist by putting you on an annual maintenance plan to help with upkeep.
Common Issue: If your furnace makes loud abnormal noises or exhibits a rocking motion, lubrication may be your fastest solution.
5. Examine Electrical Connections
Loose or corroded electrical connections can be a fire hazard and lead to furnace malfunctions. Carefully inspect all electrical connections and wires, checking to see if they are secure and undamaged. If you find any issues, it’s essential to have a professional technician address them promptly. Damaged electrical connections will cause a quick issue, one that is easily avoidable by a quick glance over.
Common Issue: Electrical problems may be your issue if you note a change of light brightness when your furnace kicks on or other issues with your energy pull. Always consult a professional to diagnose and repair.
6. Clean Your Air Ducts
Clean air ducts are vital for efficient air circulation and indoor air quality. Over time, dust and debris accumulate in the ducts, making your furnace work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Consider professional duct cleaning to keep the air in your home clean and your furnace running smoothly. This will also help reduce energy bills and reduce allergens circulating in your home.
Common Issue: Increase in allergens, dirt, or poor air quality will be your first indicator that you need air duct cleaning to improve your furnace.
7. Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance
While most of these recommended furnace maintenance tips can be performed by homeowners, it’s crucial to schedule an annual professional inspection and maintenance service. Certified technicians can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your furnace. We recommend doing so once before Winter and once before Summer to ensure optimal performance before the harsher seasons.
Stay Ahead of Furnace Maintenace Today
Proper furnace maintenance is essential to ensure your heating system runs efficiently, extends its lifespan, and keeps your home comfortable during the cold season. By following these 7 Easy Furnace Maintenance Tips for Common Furnace Issues and scheduling regular professional maintenance, you’ll be well-prepared to face the winter months with a warm and cozy home.
If you’re unsure where to begin, Shamrock HVAC Company in Maryland can set up a home appointment to address your furnace issues to help with heating all winter long. With affordable prices and fast scheduling, we can have your home back in working order quickly so you can focus on staying comfortable and relaxing.
Frequently Asked Questions on Furnace Repairs
You should check your furnace’s air filter every one to three months and replace it when it’s visibly dirty or clogged. During the heating season, it may require more frequent replacement.
A programmable thermostat allows you to set specific temperature schedules, reducing energy consumption and providing consistent comfort in your home.
Consult your furnace’s manufacturer manual for specific recommendations. Typically, a high-quality, non-detergent motor oil works well for lubricating moving parts.
While some homeowners attempt to clean their air ducts, it’s usually best left to professionals who have the right equipment and expertise to ensure a thorough and effective cleaning.
Professional maintenance typically takes between one to two hours, depending on the complexity of your heating system and the level of maintenance required.
Yes, professional maintenance is crucial to identify and address hidden issues, ensuring the safety and efficiency of your furnace.