How DIY Furnace Tune-Up & Maintenance Can Save You Money
HVAC is a necessity in many homes and apartments that have been marked to be in areas that require control of the air. If your furnace stops working, you don't need to rush and call for a repair expert, all the time. Doing some due diligence, you may be able to figure out the problem and determine if it requires your attention or that of a professional. You save a lot when you spare the call and repair the furnace by yourself. You should be able to repair the furnace or identify the cause of the damage.
Furnace Tips You Can Do Before Calling for Help
Regular Maintenance
The blower of the furnace requires regular maintenance to keep it functional.
- Use a toothbrush to clean between the furnace blades.
- The furnace needs to be wiped off dirt by a vacuum cleaner.
- Check the oil ports and regularly apply oil to erase all dirt.
- Lubricating the furnace once per year helps to keep it functional.
- The oil should be non-detergent so as not to affect the functionality.
- Change the furnace filter on a regular basis too!
You may contact a repair expert if you suspect that the problem is beyond your knowledge. As the HVAC expert works on your furnace repair, you learn different hacks to apply when you encounter the problem again.
Furnace System FAQs
Yes, you can clean your furnace yourself, but it is important to proceed with caution as furnaces can be dangerous if not handled properly.
- Turn off the Power: Before you begin cleaning your furnace, make sure to turn off the power to the unit. You can do this by switching off the power switch on the furnace or by turning off the circuit breaker that powers the furnace.
- Remove Dust and Debris: Using a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, gently clean the exterior of the furnace, removing any dust and debris that may have accumulated on the surface.
- Clean the Blower: Remove the furnace blower door and use a brush to clean the blower assembly, including the blades and the housing. You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any dust and debris that may have accumulated inside the blower.
- Replace the Air Filter: Check the air filter and replace it if it is dirty or clogged. This is a simple but important step in maintaining the efficiency of your furnace.
The simplest maintenance you can perform to keep your furnace running efficiently is to regularly replace the air filter. The air filter in your furnace is responsible for capturing dust, dirt, and other airborne particles before they enter your home's air. Over time, the filter can become clogged with debris, which can restrict airflow and reduce the efficiency of your furnace.
The above DIY tips help in saving money and enhances the faster heating of the furnace. Next time if you think of calling for assistance from a professional, try out the tips and you will be surprised how many problems you prevent from happening. The furnace runs perfectly when it has been properly maintained.
Solve Any Gas Leaks
If you smell gas near the furnace and you suspect that it has a leak, do not switch on any switches or light matches to prevent gas explosion. Leaving the doors open helps when you feel that the leakage is much and affecting individuals in the house. You can check on the gas valve and ensure you turn it off by rotating it to the quarter turn. You can proceed to call for help in case you feel it is not safe to be in the house.
Relight a Pilot Light
If the thermocouple is loose, you can relight it in a simple way or get assistance on how to relight using the pilot light. Turn the furnace gas valve on after you have cleared the air to keep the flame lit. If you find that the thermocouple needs to be replaced or adjusted, you should call for an expert to help make it run perfectly again. A thin wire can be used to clear the clogged orifice. This is done when the gas to the furnace is switched off together with the switch.
Electric Ignition
This is done by switching off power off and on so as to reset the ignition controls. It produces a spark sound and a glowing hot surface ignitor. If the furnace fails to light up, call for professional assistance to have it repaired. You should check the oil supply through the furnace to identify any damage.
