Columbus Furnace Maintenance

Furnaces are forced-air HVAC systems that circulate heated air through ducts from the central unit to living areas throughout the house. An air filter is used in the system to help remove airborne contaminants so they do not enter the HVAC equipment. The furnace filter’s job is to remove air pollutants so that they do not settle inside the furnace, where they can stress or damage internal components. Many people believe the air filter is just used for improving indoor air quality, however, it’s primary function is protection for the furnace.

Most furnaces use disposable furnace filters, though reusable models are available. Whichever type of filter your furnace uses, it will need periodic attention. Disposable filters should be replaced on a regular basis, and reusable filters cleaned as needed. There are many different types of filters on the market that range in efficiency.

How frequently filter changes are needed depends on factors including the filter’s efficiency, HVAC system use, and characteristics of the household. Households that have indoor pets and allow smoking inside tend to need more frequent filter changes compared to households where these things do not occur. Larger households and families who use the furnace more often over the winter are also likely to need more filter changes this season than a small household that keeps temperatures set efficiently over the winter.

When you buy replacement filters for your furnace, the manufacturer will offer a recommendation for how often the filter should be replaced. This recommendation is a good starting point to help you determine how often you should change the filter. It’s wise to check the filter once each month so you can see if its surfaces are completely clogged. When the filter has no available surface left to capture particles, it is time for a replacement.

A common piece of HVAC misinformation meant to help people save money on heating bills is about keeping vents closed in unused areas of a home. This is actually quite bad advice, as closing vents and doors can disrupt airflow in the home and can actually cause problems with your furnace that can be costly to correct. You want all vents to be open in your living areas at all times.

Periodically go around your home and check each supply and return vent to make sure that it is open and has not been blocked by furniture, rugs, or other personal items.

If you have a gas or oil furnace, as well as any other fuel-burning appliances, a fireplace, or even an attached garage, a carbon monoxide detector is a critical tool you need to have. Anytime fuel is burned, carbon monoxide can result from this process. When furnaces are in good condition and functioning properly, this gas will safely vent out of the system and the exhaust flue. Problems with the furnace, like a blocked flue pipe or a cracked heat exchanger, can allow carbon monoxide to enter the air supply traveling through the furnace. This means it could circulate back into your living areas.

Humans cannot detect the presence of carbon monoxide gas on their own. It has no odor, no taste, and no color. People rely on carbon monoxide detectors to alert them to the presence of this deadly gas.

Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on every floor of the home and placed just outside sleeping areas like bedrooms to ensure everyone is able to hear alarms even overnight. Carbon monoxide detectors need regular testing, just like smoke detectors. Press the alarm’s test button once per month to verify it is operating properly. Replace batteries in carbon monoxide alarms once every 6 months, even if they are connected to the home’s electrical power – fresh batteries will ensure your device has a source of power in the event of an outage.  Carbon monoxide detectors should be replaced every five to seven years or sooner if they do not pass monthly testing.