Pro Recommendation: Change your air filters every three months. This is a very simple task that can help maintain your furnace’s performance and improve the air quality in your home.
2. Check the Pilot Light (The Furnace’s Heartbeat)
The pilot light is like the heartbeat of your furnace. No pilot light, no heat. It’s really as simple as that.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Find the little guy at the bottom of your furnace
- Take a peek – you’re looking for a steady blue flame
- If it’s yellow or flickering, something’s not right
Heads up! If you see a yellow flame, don’t mess around. Call in a One Hour technician ASAP – it could be a carbon monoxide issue, and that’s not something to take lightly.
3. Dust Off the Pilot (No One Likes a Dusty Flame)
Just like you don’t want dust bunnies under your bed, your pilot light doesn’t want them either. A quick vacuum or a gentle puff from a can of compressed air can work wonders at keeping the area around your pilot clean.
4. Clean the Drainage Tube (Because Water and Furnaces Don’t Mix)
Your furnace produces water as a by-product (weird, right?), and that water needs somewhere to go. That’s where the drainage tube comes in. If it gets clogged, you could end up with a mini swimming pool in your basement. No thanks!
- Find the tube near the base of your furnace
- If it looks gunky, grab a plumber’s snake or something similar
- Give it a good clean-out
5. Show Your Vents Some Love
Your vents are like the furnace’s messengers, spreading warm air throughout your home. If they’re clogged, it’s like trying to yell through a mouthful of marshmallows. Not effective.
- Turn off the furnace (safety first!)
- Pop off those vent covers
- Give them a good wash or vacuum
- While you’re at it, stick the vacuum hose into the ducts for a deeper clean
- Put everything back where you found it
6. Seal Those Leaky Ducts (Because Heat Shouldn’t Play Hide and Seek)
Leaky ducts are like having holes in your pockets – all your money and warm air slip away.
Here’s a quick fix:
- Take a look at your ducts and check for any gaps or cracks
- Grab some silicone caulk or metal tape
- Seal up those leaks like you’re patching a leaky boat
Your wallet will thank you when the energy bills come in.
7. Clean the Flame Sensor (The Furnace’s BS Detector)
The flame sensor makes sure your furnace is actually burning gas when it’s supposed to. If it gets dirty, it might think there’s no flame when there really is.
Here’s how to clean it:
- Find the sensor near the burner assembly
- Carefully take it out
- Give it a gentle scrub with some fine steel wool
- Pop it back in place
8. Dust Off The Blower Blades
Think of the blower as your furnace’s fan club. Keep those blades clean, and they’ll keep cheering on your warm air all winter long.
- Make sure the power’s off (seriously, don’t skip this step)
- Open up the blower compartment
- Use a soft brush or cloth to wipe down the blades
- Close everything back up
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about cleaning the blower blades yourself, consider hiring a professional from Service Minds One Hour HVAC.
9. Listen for Weird Noises (Your Furnace Shouldn’t Sound Like a Haunted House)
If your furnace starts making noises like it’s auditioning for a horror movie, it’s trying to tell you something’s wrong. Rattles, bangs, or screeches? Time to call in an expert from One Hour.
Pro Recommendation: If you hear strange noises, it’s best to have a professional inspect the system to address any problems.
10. Schedule a Check-Up (Because Even Furnaces Need a Physical)
Just like you go to the doctor for a check-up, your furnace needs one too. Once a year, have a pro come in to give it a thorough once-over. They’ll clean, inspect, and make sure everything’s running smoothly.
11. Know When to Call in the Cavalry
Look, you’re handy, but there are some things best left to the pros at Service Minds One Hour.
If you notice any of these, it’s time to make a call:
- Funky smells (especially if they’re gas-like)
- Weird noises that won’t quit
- A pilot light that keeps going out
There you have it, folks! Follow these tips, and your furnace will be your best friend all winter long. Remember, a little TLC goes a long way in keeping your home cozy and your heating bills in check.
Need a hand? Give us a shout at Birmingham One Hour. We’re always happy to help keep your furnace in tip-top shape. Stay warm out there!
Birmingham Homeowner’s Furnace Maintenance Guide