Furnace Cleaning 101

Summer has come to an end. So, we say goodbye to hot days. But, with cooler weather, we need to start thinking about our furnace. Maybe you’ve already switched on the heat a few times. We wouldn’t blame you! Yet, if you haven’t serviced your furnace, now is the time. It’s time to give it some love before winter rolls in. So, this month, we are here to provide you with the rundown. We do suggest professional cleaning at least once a year. But, there are some things you can do on your own. So, let’s take a look at some DIY furnace cleaning ideas.

Furnace Filters – A Crucial Part of Furnace Cleaning

This one is a no brainer. First, you must remember to change your filter. When it comes to furnace cleaning, this is one step you don’t want to forget. Plus, it’s quick and easy to do. A furnace filter is your first defense against air quality in the home. It traps dirt and dust before they get into the furnace. You can either choose a basic filter, which does all of the above. Or, you can go with a more expensive one that traps more harmful bacterias such as mold, mildew, and pollen. Either way, it’s essential to keep it clean. Our suggestion is to change it every three months. For example, you could change it during your fall furnace cleaning. Then, switch it again mid-winter—lastly, one more time during your spring furnace cleaning. Try and keep a schedule. That way, you don’t forget.

There are a few reasons you may need to change your furnace filter more:

• You have a few furry pets
• You, or someone in the household smokes
• There is dust building up
• Your heating fan runs frequently
• You open your windows and doors often

You have a few options as far as what type of furnace filter to choose when furnace cleaning.

For a less expensive option, go with a disposable filter. However, if you’re looking to invest in your HVAC, you might want to check out a reusable one. With proper furnace cleaning, these can last a few years.

For more info, check out this article on Types of Furnace Filters.

How to Change a Furnace Filter

Now that we’ve talked a bit about furnace filters. Here is a quick rundown on how to change the filter yourself.

1. Turn off your furnace.
2. Locate furnace filter. Generally speaking, it’s underneath the unit. From there, remove the cover and take out the screen.
3. Time to do some furnace cleaning. Clean around the filter area. If you don’t you will blow dirt and dust right back into the area.
4. Install your new filter. Look at the manufactures directions and go from there.
5. Replace the cover.

And that’s it. Easy as that! You’re on your way to cleaner air. However, if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, give us a call. When it comes to HVAC, only do what’s in your comfort zone. Above all, safety comes first.

Professional Furnace Cleaning

When it comes to furnace cleaning, you can never be too thorough. So, once a year, you might want to bring in a professional. But, there’s only so much DIY furnace cleaning you can do without the knowledge of an HVAC technician. And, that’s okay. That’s why we are here. We are here to help you. But more importantly, we are here to keep your HVAC up and running.

On top of furnace cleaning, our experts also give a proper inspection. The key to a lasting furnace is proper maintenance. We will find the minor problems before they become big problems. Remember, big problems mean big bills. That’s not something that anyone wants. Plus, it’s better to find a problem now than in the middle of winter. You may be okay without a furnace now, but amid the Canadian winter is a whole other story. So, let us come to you now. Let’s start on that furnace cleaning before it’s too late.

So, what should you expect during a routine furnace cleaning and service? There are a few things that our experts will do. Here is a list of what you can expect:

• Check the heat exchanger for signs of damage
• Examine and clean the blower
• Inspect electrical connections
• Check the burner and flame sensors
• Examine the belts for any cracks
• Check, clean and replace the furnace filters

With regular service, you can avoid those HVAC emergencies. These little steps might not seem like a lot, but they could save you in the end. A well-maintained unit can last you for a decade. So, make the most out of your investment and stick to a schedule. As we mentioned before, winter is the most critical time for your furnace cleaning and tune-up. Call us today to make an appointment!

Other Ways to Keep Your Furnace Clean

Aside from furnace cleaning, there are a few daily tasks you can do. Keeping your home clear of dust and debris means that less enter into your HVAC systems. So, the easiest way to do that is to keep up with a household cleaning schedule. Try and do a quick sweep of your floors daily if you can. Then, twice a week, vacuum any carpets or rugs in the home. You might want to think about investing in a good vacuum.

Here are the Best Vacuums of 2021.

You’ll also want to remember to clean your vents and registers. This is crucial. Dirt and debris from inside your home often get trapped in there. So at a minimum, we suggest wiping them down at least once a week. For a more in-depth clean, take the vacuum and clean out the inside as well. That way, it won’t make it into your furnace. Furnace cleaning truly starts within the home. Suppose we can minimize the amount of dirt into our HVAC; it makes furnace cleaning a lot easier overall. If you have pets, this proves to be even more helpful. So don’t forget to give your home some extra love this year.

Winter is coming. For more tips on furnace cleaning and winterizing your home, check out our blog Fire up the Furnace. And, don’t forget to give us a call and schedule your annual service today!