Heating your home in the winter is a necessity for many people. If you have a gas furnace, it’s vital to ensure that it is properly maintained to operate safely and efficiently. A gas furnace maintenance checklist should include a visual inspection of the furnace, testing of the pilot light and burners, checking the flue and venting system, and testing the thermostat. The technician should also clean or replace the air filter as needed.
Following this gas furnace maintenance checklist will help extend your gas furnace’s life and prevent costly repairs down the road.
Inspect Thermostat
The first thing on the gas furnace maintenance checklist is to inspect the thermostat. The thermostat is what tells the furnace when to turn on and off. If it is not working correctly, the furnace may constantly run or not turn on at all.
Make sure the batteries are fresh, and all the connections are tight. If there are any loose wires, you should call a qualified technician to repair or replace them.
Test Pilot Light
Next, you’ll need to test the pilot light. The pilot light is what ignites the gas when the furnace is turned on. If it is not working correctly, the furnace will not operate.
To test the pilot light, turn on the gas and hold a lighter up to the opening. If the pilot light does not ignite, you’ll need to call a qualified technician for repair.
Replace The Filters
Another item on the gas furnace maintenance checklist is to replace the filters. The air filter helps to remove contaminants from the air before it enters the furnace. Regularly changing the air filter is vital so the furnace can operate efficiently.
Replacing most filters every three months is a must. However, if you have pets or live in a dusty area, you may need to replace the filter more often.
Inspect The Flue And Venting System
The flue and venting system removes the furnace’s dangerous gases from your home. If these gases are not properly vented, they can build up and cause a fire or explosion.
Make sure that the flue is clear of debris and that all connections are tight. If you notice any cracks or damage, you should call a qualified technician for repair.
Test The Burners
The burners are what create the heat in the furnace. They should be inspected regularly to ensure they are clean and operating correctly.
To test the burners, turn on the gas and hold a lighter up to the opening. If the flame is blue and steady, the burner works appropriately. If it is yellow or flickering, you’ll need to call a qualified technician for repair.
Check The Gas Line
Last but not least, you’ll need to check the gas line for any leaks. Gas leaks can be hazardous and need immediate attention.
To check for gas leaks, turn on the gas and hold a piece of cardboard up to the connections. If the cardboard ignites, there is a gas leak. You should call a qualified technician for repair immediately.
Test the Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detector
Although the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your house are not a component of the gas furnace, the time you spend having your furnace inspected is a perfect opportunity to remember to test and change the batteries in them.
Additionally, you want to verify your carbon monoxide detector. To prevent false alarms from the trace amounts of carbon monoxide (CO) released while your furnace is first turning on, ensure your sensors are at least 15 feet away from the furnace.
Conclusion
This gas furnace maintenance checklist will help to keep your gas furnace in good working condition. By following this checklist, you can extend the life of your furnace and prevent costly repairs down the road. Remember to have your gas furnace serviced by a qualified technician every year.
Please contact us if you have any questions about gas furnaces or want more information. Furnace Repair Vaughan can help you with all of your gas furnace needs. We are experts in gas furnace installation, repair, and maintenance. Call us today. We would be happy to help!
