Early fall is a great time to ensure your furnace runs its best as colder temperatures approach. Most homes in Canada use a forced air system, with either a gas or electric furnace. We’ll focus on steps for forced air systems in this article, but whether you have an older boiler system, or a modern heat pump, a yearly inspection and maintenance is crucial to keeping your equipment in good working order. Having a professional furnace technician is highly recommended, but there are also some steps you can take to improve your system’s performance and avoid unexpected issues.
4 Reasons to Conduct a Yearly Furnace Inspection & Maintenance
Energy Efficiency & Air Quality
A clean and well-maintained furnace will require less energy to run. Dust and debris can build up over the summer even when your furnace isn’t running. Not only will a well-maintained system help reduce energy costs, but it will also improve the quality of the air as it circulates throughout your home
Maximize Longevity
Your heating and cooling systems are an essential investment for your home and family. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning, can extend the lifespan of your furnace, maximizing your investment.
Reduce/Eliminate Downtime
No one wants to have an issue or shut down their furnace anytime—especially during the season’s colder days. Regular inspection and maintenance by both you and your heating and cooling specialist can help identify potential issues before they cause problems that require repair. Not only does this help give you peace of mind, but if a part does show signs of needing replacement, it’s much easier to schedule the work when it’s convenient for you.
Safety
The most important reason to maintain your furnace is for your safety and that of everyone in your home. Early detection of issues can prevent dangers such as carbon monoxide (CO) leaks. For this reason alone, a yearly inspection is critical for avoiding potentially deadly health risks.
3 Furnace Maintenance Steps for Homeowners
Inspect and Clean
A quick inspection and clean-up of your furnace room or area is a great place to start your yearly inspection. Keep the area around your furnace clear of any debris. Avoid storing household cleaners, paint, or any chemical products near your furnace. Vapours from products like these can easily be drawn into your system and spread throughout your home through your heating vents. Dusting and sweeping around your furnace will help keep the inside of your furnace clean. A visual inspection of the furnace and ducts can identify holes or rust.
Once you finish with the furnace area, it’s a good idea to clean the floor vents and air exchange vents throughout your home. Dust, pet hair, and other debris can build up, reducing airflow and air quality. Remove the registers and clean them with a damp cloth. Vacuum around and inside to remove any debris. A professional duct cleaning is recommended every 3-5 years; you may want to do this more frequently if you have pets in the home.
Replace your Furnace Air Filter
In most instances, furnace air filters should be changed every six months. However, in areas prone to dust or with pets, you may need to change the filter more frequently. A dirty air filter will reduce airflow, reducing the unit’s efficiency and affecting air quality throughout your home.
First, be sure to shut off the power to your system. Remove the air filter, making sure to note the direction of the arrows that indicate the airflow direction. Inspect the filter for debris buildup and replace it with the filter recommended by the manufacturer if necessary. When replacing or reinstalling the filter after inspection, match the filters’ arrows with those on the unit. Replace the filter at least every six months. Regular inspections between replacements will help ensure the filter works at its best.
Windows, Doors & Attics
Another way to maximize the efficiency of your furnace is to inspect your windows and doors for air leaks. Holding your hand a few 3-6 centimetres from window edges and all around the door frame is a simple way to identify unwanted airflow. Air leaks can generally be eliminated using weather stripping or caulk to seal off any small gaps. Inspect the insulation in your attic, if you notice gaps, consider adding additional insulation where necessary.
Check and Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon Monoxide is an invisible, odourless gas that can be deadly if not detected in your home. A working carbon monoxide detector is critical for catching leaks from your home’s furnace or other gas appliances. Much like your smoke detectors, battery-operated units should have new batteries installed every six months. Most units also have a “test function,” confirming the unit is in proper working order. Check the “expiry date” of each unit. Generally, detectors need to be replaced every 5 years or per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Once you’ve completed your maintenance checklist, it’s time to run your furnace for a final inspection. Turn on the furnace and confirm that the thermostat is running properly. Return to the furnace area and listen for any unusual sounds. Scraping or bumping sounds could indicate parts beginning to wear.
Schedule an Annual Inspection
The final step in preparing your furnace for the season is scheduling annual maintenance with a professional HVAC service technician. Using specialized tools, your technician will perform comprehensive system checks, clean and service vital components of your furnace, and ensure you maintain your furnace’s manufacturer’s warranty. You will also get peace of mind knowing that your system is safe and running at its most efficient level, and potential issues will be identified before the cold weather comes.