

Depending on your fuel source- oil or gas-the valve should either be near the oil tank or on the incoming gas pipe. To cut off the fuel supply, first find the fuel shutoff valve. Accomplish cutting the electrical power by toggling the on-off switch on the unit. STEP 1: Clean out the combustion chamber.īefore doing anything else, cut both the electrical power and fuel supply to the furnace. Keep a supply of furnace filters, a replacement oil filter, foil tape for patching small holes in the combustion chamber, flue or ductwork, and good quality machine oil for lubrication on hand.Keep an assortment of tools and spare parts near your furnace – including the proper screwdrivers (regular or Philips head) to remove the door to the combustion chamber.Always turn off the electrical power and fuel supply before you start any furnace project.However, there are a few precautions that are necessary before you begin. Most common furnace maintenance is not complicated-you just have to have a good vacuum cleaner and some basic tools and supplies.

#Furnace maintenance how to
Photo: How to Clean and Maintain a Furnace Plus, a clean furnace with a fresh filter can help freshen your indoor air. If your home has multiple furry pets or smokers, you may need to change the filters more frequently to trap dust, dirt, and airborne particulates.Ĭhanging or cleaning furnace filters is perhaps the quickest and easiest way to maximize the efficiency of your heating system.If you are using an electrostatic or HEPA filter, plan to change or clean it every 2 to 4 months.If you use a basic fiberglass or paper furnace filter, it usually needs to be replaced every 1 to 2 months during the heating season.How often a filter needs to be changed depends on the use, type of filter, and whether there are pets at home. However, the furnace filter needs to be inspected and replaced more frequently. It also is a good idea to perform a quick clean in the spring, vacuuming up any dust or soot. It’s recommended to clean and maintain your furnace every year, prior to the onset of cooler weather. Proper care and maintenance also will help prolong the life of your furnace, and keep it running at peak efficiency. The furnace is usually the only thing standing between bitter winter weather and your family’s safety and comfort, and it benefits from an annual inspection and maintenance routine. Recommended Frequency of Furnace Cleaning and Maintenance Contact a qualified service agency as soon as possible.We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to and affiliated sites.
#Furnace maintenance manual
Alert - In the event that electrical, fuel or mechanical failures occur, immediately turn the gas supply off at the manual gas valve on the gas pipe before turning off electrical power to the furnace.Carbon monoxide detectors are recommended and should be installed according to all local laws and regulations. Remember, you may not be able to smell fuel gases. Immediately call a gas supplier from your neighbor’s phone.

If you smell gas, do not try to light any appliance. If you hear any unusual sounds, ask your technician for guidance.
