Furnace maintenance may not be the first thing on your mind when the weather starts getting warmer, but it should be a part of your spring to-do list. Taking care of your furnace each spring helps ensure that it will work like it should when fall and winter come back around. While modern furnaces are quite reliable, a little TLC helps keep them running their best. Here are a few basic spring furnace maintenance tasks you should tackle before shutting the system down for the season.
Clean Your Air Ducts
Dirty air ducts decrease furnace efficiency and can drive up your heating bill while reducing the system’s lifespan. They can also cause respiratory problems, especially people with asthma and allergies. Spring is the perfect time to have your home’s air ducts cleaned since this task will also ensure that your ducts will be in good condition when you start up your air conditioner.
Inspect Your Furnace’s Belts
Your furnace has belts that are responsible for running the blower. They play an important role in the overall functionality of your heating system, so it’s a good idea to check to see that they are tight and aligned properly. Look for wear, and replace any that appear to be thinning or cracked. You should also replace any belts that no longer fit tightly. Remove debris and dust from around the belts as well as the fan blades.
Check Your Thermostat’s Batteries
If you have an electric thermostat, spring is a good time to make sure the battery is still in good condition. If the battery is dying, it could cause temperature fluctuations. In addition to having a negative impact on your comfort, these fluctuations can decrease your system’s efficiency and drive up your bill.
Get a Furnace Tune-Up
If it’s been a while since you’ve had your furnace professionally inspected, schedule a tune-up. At Larry & Sons, we offer professional furnace tune-ups in Hagerstown and the surrounding areas, and we can help you make sure your furnace will be in good working order for next year. Contact us today to learn more.