Furnace maintenance is an important part of prolonging the life of your HVAC equipment. During the heating season, your furnace works hard to keep your home a comfortable temperature, delivering warm air to every room of your house. But if it keeps working hard with no maintenance, you could encounter big trouble.

No homeowner likes discovering that their furnace has stopped working. That’s why you should regularly perform simple DIY furnace maintenance tasks to prevent a major breakdown when you least expect it. We’ve assembled this list of quick tips that you can do in just a few minutes to keep your furnace up and running:

1. Change the Furnace Filter
   After months of use, your furnace filter can become extremely clogged and full of dust that prevents proper airflow. Poor airflow reduces the efficiency of your furnace and can even cause the heat exchanger to overheat. Change your furnace filter monthly when your furnace is in use for maximum efficiency.
2. Vacuum the Interior of the Furnace
   Open the front panel of your furnace and carefully use a vacuum with a hose attachment to clean all dust and debris from the gas burners and crevices within the interior of your equipment.
3. Inspect the Fan Belt
   Over time, your furnace’s fan belt can deteriorate or become loose. The fan belt is an important component, which drives the blower. All furnace maintenance checklists should include an inspection of the fan belt for cracking, fraying or loosening. Replace the belt if necessary.
4. Oil Bearings
   The motor and blower shaft bearings will need to be lubricated regularly. Remove the oil caps and apply a few drops of machine oil to the bearings and motor without over-lubricating. Don’t forget to replace the caps!
5. Check the Outside Exhaust Vent
   Your furnace’s exhaust vent carries harmful carbon monoxide outdoors. Ensure that there is no debris, snow or ice blocking the vent. A blockage can cause a furnace failure and can be hazardous to your health.
6. Look for Leaks
   A furnace leak can be incredibly dangerous and requires expert repair. Examine the exhaust flue inside your furnace, checking for small holes that could potentially leak carbon monoxide. While small holes can sometimes be repaired with foil tape, keep in mind that this is only a temporary fix.
7. Clean Floor Vents
   Floor vents often gather dust and debris. Make a point to examine each floor register throughout your home and vacuum out any gunk. Make sure all vents are clear and open to ensure consistent airflow throughout your home.

Need expert help with furnace maintenance? The heating technicians at Evam Canada can ensure your furnace is kept clean and works efficiently all season long. Contact us online or call us at 1-905-624-5544 to book your furnace maintenance appointment today!