According to the most recent census, 48% of U.S. residents use gas to heat their homes.
There’s nothing like stepping into a warm house after a howling winter wind. But furnaces develop build-ups and, without regular cleaning. They don’t work as efficiently and end up costing you more energy bills.
Learning how to clean a furnace is essential if you want to use your furnace without adding extra to your budget throughout the year. You don’t need to do a total cleaning every month, but when the time comes, you want to be sure that you’re using the right tools and cleaning the right parts so you don’t do more harm than good.
Take a look at the different ways you can clean a furnace like a pro.
Shut Down the System
Before cleaning a furnace, you need to shut down the system. Start by turning off the power at the shut-off switch or breaker. Disconnect the furnace from the gas line by turning off the gas valve.
Clean the Combustion Chamber
All the heat and combustion take place here. You can access the combustion chamber by removing the burner assembly.
Use a stiff brush to remove any soot and debris. You may also need a putty knife to remove any caked-on debris. Be sure to clean all surfaces of the combustion chamber, including the sides and bottom.
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Inspect the Flue Pipe
This is the pipe that vents the fumes from the furnace. Check the vents on the side of the house to make sure they are clear. If they are blocked, the furnace will not work properly.
Change the Air Filter if Needed
If it’s been a few months since you last changed your furnace’s air filter, then it’s probably time to change it again. A clogged air filter will make your work harder and can even lead to a system breakdown.
Simply remove the old filter and insert a new one in its place. Be sure to check your furnace cleaning guide before taking any action.
Adjust the Burner
To adjust a burner, loosen the set screw that holds the flame height adjustment rod in place. Use a wrench to turn the nut that controls the gas valve. Turning the nut clockwise will increase the gas flow and make the flame taller while turning the nut counterclockwise will reduce the gas flow and make the flame shorter.
Sweep the Floor Vents
This will ensure that all the dirt and dust bunnies are removed from the area. Use a dustpan and brush to reach all the nooks and crannies. Once you have swept the area clean, you can vacuum the vents to remove any remaining debris.
Learn How to Clean a Furnace Like a Pro
If you want to keep your furnace running efficiently and avoid costly repairs, annual cleaning is a must. But before you roll up your sleeves, review this checklist on how to clean a furnace. By following these steps, you can clean your furnace like a pro and keep your family warm all winter long.
