Proper furnace maintenance is an important part of avoiding expensive repairs, promoting energy efficiency, and protecting your warranty coverage. With so much at stake, you simply cannot afford to neglect the maintenance that your heating system requires. Thankfully, this maintenance is actually quite easy and can be completed in three basic steps. You can learn more about each of these three steps below. 

Step #1: Monthly Filter Check

Air flow is critical to the function of your furnace. If air is not allowed to flow into the furnace because your air filter is clogged, your furnace will struggle to produce enough hot air to heat your home. That is why it is so important for you to check your furnace filter each month. When checking your filter, simply remove the filter from the front of your furnace and hold the filter up to the light. If you are able to easily see through the filter, put the filter back into the furnace and check it again next month. However, if you are not able to easily see through the filter, you will need to replace or clean the filter.

Step #2: Annual Inspection And Service

Catching potential problems in their earliest stages can help you to avoid a heating system failure and reduce stress on your furnace. That is why you should always have your furnace professionally inspected at least once a year in order to detect any problems. The best time to complete this furnace maintenance is prior to the start of a new heating season. This will allow you to make any necessary repairs before your area experiences any extremely cold temperatures which can put additional stress on your furnace.

Step #3: Annual Vent Cleaning

While your air ducts are not technically part of your furnace, they do play a very important role in ensuring your furnace is able to function properly. This is because any dust and debris that builds up inside your ventilation system can impact the ability of the air to flow freely both to and from your furnace. That is why your furnace maintenance plan should also include having your vents cleaned by a professional at least once each year. The most convenient and cost-effective way to address this maintenance requirement is to have your vents cleaned at the same time that you have your furnace inspected and serviced. This will allow you to save money on an extra service call and may even allow you to qualify for a discounted maintenance bundle rate. 

Contact a local furnace maintenance service to learn more.