How to Extend the Life of Your Furnace with Preventive Maintenance

At Edmonton Furnace & Carpet Care, we know that your furnace is more than a heating system; it’s an investment in your family’s comfort and well-being. And if you’re like most homeowners, you’d prefer that investment to last as long as possible. Regular maintenance will protect you from having to replace your furnace early, keeping it running efficiently year after year. While annual tune-ups and professional cleanings are best left to the experts, there are also several ways you can extend the life of your furnace through preventive at-home maintenance. Here are a few ways to keep your furnace working in pristine condition.

Change Your Air Filters

Dirty air filters restrict airflow and can cause your system to overheat. A clogged filter forces your furnace to work harder to push air, which can cause unnecessary wear and tear. We recommend changing your air filters every 3 months. If you have pets that shed or family members with allergies, you may need to replace them more often to keep clean air flowing freely.

Clean the Flame Sensor

The flame sensor is a safety feature that ensures your furnace’s flame is burning properly. If the sensor doesn’t detect a flame, it automatically shuts off the gas supply to prevent unburned gas from collecting inside the system. A dirty flame sensor can fail to ignite or cause the system to short-cycle (running too often for short periods of time). To clean the sensor, first ensure your furnace is completely turned off. Then, use a soft abrasive material, such as a brass brush, Scotch-Brite pad, or fine steel wool, to gently remove any carbon or debris that has accumulated on the sensor.

Keep Your Vents Clear & Clean

Like a clogged air filter, dirty or blocked vents force your furnace to work harder, shortening its lifespan. To keep air flowing smoothly, vacuum around your vents and clean your registers every few weeks. We also recommend having your vents and air ducts professionally cleaned every 2 3 years to remove buildup you can’t reach yourself. And don’t forget to ensure that furniture, rugs, or curtains aren’t blocking your vents, which can limit airflow to your home.

Clean the Blower Motor

The blower motor powers the fan that draws air through the filter, pushes it through the furnace for heating or cooling, and circulates it through your home’s ducts and vents. When the blower motor becomes dirty, it’s more likely to malfunction or fail. To clean the blower motor, first shut off all power and gas to the furnace. Remove the access panel and locate the blower motor, typically near the air filter. Once removed, use a soft brush, small vacuum, or compressed air to clear away dust and debris.

Schedule an Annual Professional Tune-up

Even with the best DIY maintenance, it’s important to have a professional inspect your furnace once a year. An HVAC technician can spot potential issues early and make adjustments to help prevent costly repairs or replacements down the line. They also have the expertise to safely handle electrical components and gas systems, which are areas often best left to trained professionals.

A bit of preventative care goes a long way in keeping your home’s furnace running efficiently for years to come. Our team of experts at Edmonton Furnace & Carpet Care is here to help you keep your home heated through all seasons. When you schedule a furnace tune-up with us, feel free to ask our technicians any questions about maintaining your furnace between annual servicing. We are ready to help you get the most out of your home’s heating system.