It would be false to say that with regular maintenance you can completely keep furnace repairs away. However, it is true that maintenance can substantially decrease your need for furnace repair. Scheduling professional maintenance and completing simple tasks on your own is the best way to avoid costly repairs.
Your furnace is a sensitive system. Whether it is connected to gas or electricity, there are many moving parts that can impact how it functions. Taking care of your system ensures that it continues to work the way it should.
If you would prefer the help of a professional, give Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Heating and Cooling a call at 469-518-4211 for HVAC repair Grand Prairie, TX.
Continue reading for more information on how to keep furnace repairs away.
Importance of Scheduling Regular Furnace Maintenance
The very best way to take care of your furnace is to schedule regular preventative maintenance. Here are a few reasons why this is so important:
- Reduce the likelihood of damage and heating repairs.
- Lower energy bills.
- Increase the efficiency of the system.
- Extend the lifespan of the unit.
During a maintenance appointment a technician may complete a variety of tasks. Typically, they will inspect, clean and tune-up the system. While the complexity of the maintenance varies from technician to technician, the goal is the same. If you want to know more about what your technician does during a heating maintenance appointment, give them a call.
Do-It-Yourself Furnace Maintenance
It is key that you hire a professional to complete full maintenance and inspection. However, there are things that you can do throughout the year to keep your furnace in working order.
As important as it is that you take care of your furnace, you also need to be sure to use proper safety precautions. This means turning off the power before completing any maintenance and always wearing protective clothing.
Take a look at some of the ways that you can maintain your furnace and avoid repairs:
Change the Filter
Most homeowners know that you should replace your filter every month, but how many actually do? Although a filter may seem like a trivial part, it is essential to your furnace’s effectiveness. Your filter does more than just remove dust, dander and debris from the air. It also keeps your furnace running efficiently.
When you don’t change your filter it becomes clogged with all kinds of particles and debris. This causes your furnace to slow down as the airflow becomes blocked. Your furnace will begin to overwork itself in an attempt to continue producing hot air. Eventually, the furnace will sustain damage or even completely shut down.
The price of a filter is small compared to the price of a heating replacement. You can purchase filters at any home improvement stores and even some grocery stores. Give your technician a call if you need assistance replacing your filter.
Clean the Unit
It may seem strange that you need to clean a furnace, but it is extremely important to its function. Just like how a filter can become clogged, the furnace itself can have restricted airflow if it becomes dirty. Start by turning off the power to the furnace. Then, wipe down the surface of the unit. If you can, open up grilles and other covers to gently blow out any dust and dirt.
It is also important to ensure there is at least two feet of clearance around the unit. Doing all of this will allow the system to develop better airflow. If you are using a vacuum cleaner make sure it is on the lowest setting. Your HVAC technician will provide an in-depth cleaning, so don’t worry too much about getting into all the nooks and crannies.
Inspect the System
This is something that you can do as often as you’d like. All you have to do is give your system a quick look over. The most important component that needs to be checked is your heat exchanger. A quick Google search can show you where your heat exchanger is located.
Keep your eye out for any cracks or damage to this part. When a heat exchanger becomes cracked it can leak Carbon Monoxide into your home. This is extremely dangerous and needs to be repaired as soon as possible.
The second component that you should inspect are the burners. Take a look at your burners and note what color they are. They should be blue. If they are orange or yellow, then it means that your burners need to be cleaned. This is not something that you should attempt, but be sure to tell your HVAC technician when they come for heating maintenance.
Open Vents in Your Home
It doesn’t seem like something as simple as opening the vents in your home can make your system work better. However, this task can make a big difference. Be sure to open up the vents in the rooms that you use. You can keep the vents closed in rooms like guest bedrooms, bathrooms and other rarely used rooms.
This keeps the airflow open throughout your home and reduces strain on your system. You may also want to consider updating your vents if they are older. Keeping your vents open will also ensure that you stay comfortable during the winter season.
HVAC Grand Prairie, TX Services
If you are ready to schedule HVAC repair Grand Prairie TX then call Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating. Our team of licensed and experienced professionals are ready to help you, no matter the problem.
From cracked heat exchangers to broken blower motors, our team has got your back. We provide replacements, repairs and maintenance for a variety of heating, cooling and plumbing systems. Grand Prairie residents have trusted Dial One Johnson with their HVAC and plumbing needs for over 50 years.
To schedule an appointment with Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating today, give us a call at 469-518-4211 or contact us online.
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.