HOW TO AVOID FURNACE REPAIR THIS WINTER

Winter is on it's way and according to the Farmer's Almanac, we're going to have a cold one.  Don't cross your fingers and hope that your furnace is going to keep the family warm this winter. Avoid uncomfortable emergencies and unexpected furnace repairs that can be quite costly by making sure your furnace is running efficiently ahead of time.  


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If you have experience with furnace repair, then you can do your own inspection.  However, if you don't know much about fuel jets and how to make sure the fuel burning process is properly initiating, then you might need a little help from your trusted HVAC Contractor.  Here are the things that should be checked:

1. Venting System:  The venting system of your furnace is designed to properly remove the flue gases.  You certainly don't want those seeping into the house.  Your contractor will make sure the vents are well sealed and each joint is also sealed properly.  This will ensure that your furnace is properly disposing of the flue gases and keep your family safe.  
2. Check Filter:  Have you ever tried clamping your hand over your mouth while still breathing?  This is exactly what it's like when you have a dirty filter in your furnace.  As the dirt builds up, it gets harder and harder for your furnace to properly blow the air.  This can lead to many problems and expensive repair bills.  Your contractor will always remove covers and check the filter.  This is something you should consider learning to do yourself about once a month.  
3. Check Blower:  Every furnace has a blower that helps move the air through the vents and out to your home.  Some furnaces have a blower that requires lubrication.  Your contractor will check the blower to make sure it is free of any blockages and properly lubricated. 
4. Clean Burners:  Just like the burners on your stove get dirty, so do the burners on your furnace.  if they are not removed and cleaned properly, this can also lead to expensive furnace repair bills.  Your HVAC contractor should remove and clean the burners to help your furnace run at its highest efficiency.  
5. Clean Pilot and Sensor:  At the same time the contractor is cleaning the burners, they will clean the pilot and sensor so they can run effectively.  Then they will put everything in the furnace back together.  
6. Safety Check:  Last but not least, after every furnace check the contractor will make sure it is running safely and efficiently by running a safety check.  They will check the carbon monoxide levels to make sure that the furnace is running clean and your family is safe.  it's not a bad idea for you to invest in your own carbon monoxide tester so that you can make sure your family is safe all year long.  

During the winter, continue to keep the area around your furnace clean and clear from all debris.  This is not only for safety purposes, but so that your furnace is easily accessible and no blockages accidentally occur.  

If you have any questions about your HVAC system or are concerned that you might need furnace repair soon, feel free to contact us at 859-282-7827.