As a homeowner, you’ll want your furnace to run as efficiently as possible, for as long as possible. Fortunately, there are a few key things homeowners can do on their own to make this a reality.
Are you wondering what these include? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Below, this furnace maintenance company in Niles, Illinois is going to provide five tips that will help you keep your system running smoothly.
1. Replace the Air Filter
Our first piece of advice is to replace the air filter. The air filter prevents excess amounts of dust and debris from entering the duct system. By replacing it regularly, you can ensure that your home’s air remains clean, and that your ducts remain in good condition.
If you don’t replace the air filter, it will eventually become inundated with dust, which will put undue stress on the furnace. This will cause it to work harder, resulting in a premature demise — not to mention unnecessary energy expenditure.
Most professionals recommend replacing the filter every two to three months. If you need help with this task, you always reach out to your local furnace maintenance company in Niles, Illinois.
2. Clean It
Over time, the internal components of your furnace are bound to become covered in residue. The more residue that builds up on them, the less efficiently your furnace will operate. Fortunately, you can combat this by cleaning the system.
While it is possible to clean your furnace on your own, it’s a somewhat intensive process. As such, most homeowners leave this task to the professionals.
3. Check the Flue Pipe
Your furnace’s flue pipe is used to evacuate dangerous gases from your furnace. Unfortunately, this pipe can sometimes become blocked up. In some cases, it can even form holes. Both scenarios can lead to dangerous gases making their way into your home.
It’s recommended that you check your flue pipe every six months or so. If you see any blockages inside this pipe, you should have it cleaned out by your local furnace maintenance company in Niles, Illinois.
4. Keep the Area Around Your Furnace Clear
It’s important for homeowners to keep a decent amount of clearance around their furnace. Your furnace isn’t designed to operate near other items. It needs room to breathe, so to speak.
If you do put items too close to your furnace, there’s a risk that they could catch on fire. To be safe, it’s best to keep at least 30 inches of clearance on each of your furnace’s sides.
5. Clean Out Your Ducts
Your ducts will directly impact your furnace’s functionality. If your ducts are dirty, your furnace will struggle to push hot air to all the rooms in your home. As a result, it will be forced to work harder than is truly necessary, resulting in undue wear and tear and excess energy expenditure.
That is why it’s best to clean out your ducts every two to three years. Doing so will provide a clear passageway for your furnace’s air, ensuring that your furnace is not overworked.
While you could attempt to clean your ducts on your own, it’s best to have it done by a professional furnace maintenance company in Niles, Illinois. Their technicians will have all the equipment needed to make quick work of the project.
Looking for a Furnace Maintenance Company in Niles, Illinois?
Do you need help with any of the furnace maintenance tasks reviewed above? If so, and if you’re looking for the best furnace maintenance company in Niles, Illinois, John J. Cahill, Inc. is the company to call.
Our technicians have experience maintaining all types of furnaces for homeowners throughout the Niles area. Regardless of your maintenance needs, we are the people to call. Contact us today at (847) 864-5225 to get started.
