When winter rolls around, no homeowner wants to find out that their furnace is on the fritz. But just like with most things in life, there are ways to avoid unexpected breakdowns and to deal with them early.
One of the best things you can do is to schedule a professional annual inspection for your system. These maintenance visits can help extend the life of your furnace and keep it working at peak efficiency.
If you notice a strange smell in your home or at your furnace unit, it may be a sign that something is wrong. This could be a lingering odor from something you put in the unit or from mold growth, and it can also indicate that there is a gas leak. If you can see that it is a gas leak, evacuate the house immediately.
In addition, it is a good idea to inspect your ductwork for air leaks. A leak is not only a waste of energy, but it can cause your heating system to run much longer than necessary and can lead to significant damage to your home.
A yearly check of your ductwork will give you a better chance of discovering a problem before it becomes major. This can save you money in the long run by preventing a breakdown and will keep your heating bills down.
Clean and lubricate the blower shaft bearings every year with a few drops of lightweight motor oil. This can help prevent the natural wear and tear that comes from heavy use, which can shorten your furnace’s lifespan.
Change or clean your furnace filter at least twice per month during the heating season. This can also help keep your system operating efficiently by ensuring that all of the dust and debris is removed from your ducts.
If your furnace is over 15 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it with a more efficient model. It is also a good idea to take advantage of tax credits and rebates that are available in some areas.
You should be able to tell if you have an efficient system by looking at your heating bills and comparing them to those of previous years. If you see an increase in your monthly bill, it is likely that your furnace is inefficient and should be replaced.
Furnace Repair can be a big expense for many homeowners, and that’s why it’s important to do all that you can to make sure your furnace is in top shape. This will save you money on your heating bills, and can even help you to get an efficient system at a discounted price.
A squealing, clunking, or thumping sound from your furnace is a sign that you have a problem with the blower belt. If you don’t have the necessary knowledge or equipment to fix this, call a repair technician right away.
In most cases, furnace repairs can be done by do-it-yourselfers with a little bit of practice. However, if you are not sure how to go about it, it is always better to have an expert do it for you.