Modern furnaces—especially high efficiency models—are more complicated than models from decades ago. The efficiency gains are due in large part to the careful balancing of fuel, combustion air, and exhaust gasses.
FURNACE MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS
The management of these systems is accomplished through electronic controls, which need periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimum performance. An annual clean and tune of the furnace will keep the systems properly adjusted, and potentially reduce costly future repairs. A qualified technician should:
- Check igniter and flame sensor
- Pull and clean burners
- Inspect heat exchanger for excess rust or cracks
- Blow out condensate line (90%+ models)
- Check system static pressure
- Do a combustion analysis
- Check gas pressure
- Check for gas or venting leaks
- Inspect and lubricate blower motor
Additionally, there are a few things that homeowners can do to keep their furnace operating efficiently and safely:
Furnace filter replacement
A clogged furnace filter reduces the airflow through the system, making the furnace work harder and longer to deliver heat throughout the house. A standard filter (about 1 inch thick) should be replaced monthly, especially under dusty conditions. Larger pleated filters (3-6inches thick) are designed to remove smaller particles (pet dander, pollen, etc.) and may last several months.
It is important to check with the furnace manufacturer to determine what types of filters can be used and how frequently they must be changed.
Condensate line
Higher efficiency furnaces condense water as part of the combustion process. There is usually a plastic/rubber drain line (about an inch in diameter) that leads from the furnace to a nearby drain. If this line becomes plugged, the furnace may not operate properly, and may even shut down. Check the line each time you replace a filter.
Air intake and exhaust
If the furnace cannot get fresh air or exhaust the combustion gasses, it may shut down. Partial blockages can lead to poor performance or dangerous conditions. Inspect plastic pipes that enter or leave the side of the house and ensure there are no insect or animal nests, foliage, or snow blocking the pipes. Furnaces that exhaust through a chimney should be inspected annually for blockages and to ensure the integrity of bricks, mortar, flashing, etc.
Adjust thermostat
Use your programmable thermostat to reduce the operation of the furnace at night and when you are not home.
The dangers of CO
When the by-products of combustion are not properly vented to the outside, it can lead to unhealthy conditions. Among the most dangerous components is carbon monoxide (CO), an odorless, invisible gas that causes illness—and sometimes death—among many Minnesotans every year.
What to look for
The symptoms of CO poisoning are easily confused with those of a flu or cold: headache, nausea, irritated eyes and nose, and—eventually—confusion and lethargy. The physical symptoms may lessen when away from the home. Another clue is moisture build-up in the house, especially condensation on cooler windows.
Causes
There are several possible causes of CO in a home, but many have to do with problems with the proper venting of flue gasses:
- Cracked furnace heat exchanger
- Blocked or undersized chimney or vents
- Damaged or separated vents
- Insufficient combustion air supply
Preventing CO in your home
These two recommendations will help keep your family safe:
- Install code-required CO detectors near all combustion devices and within 10 feet of all bedrooms
- Have annual inspections with a CO test of all combustion devices (furnace, water heater, fireplace, dryer, range)
Furnace filters
The furnace filter is located between the return duct (sometimes called “cold-air return”) and the furnace. The air is returning to the furnace from throughout the house, where it will be heated and redistributed through the supply duct.
Furnace filters have an arrow that indicates airflow direction; make sure it is aligned with the direction that air is flowing from the return duct into the furnace.
Some systems have a filter cover which covers the access to the filter. Be sure that it is sealed tightly to prevent air leaks. If there is no filter cover, seal with metal foil tape.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Annual cleaning and tuning of the furnace are necessary to ensure proper adjustment and maintenance of the electronic controls that manage the furnace’s systems. This includes cleaning the igniter and flame sensor, pulling and cleaning the burners, inspecting the heat exchanger for excess rust or cracks, and blowing out the condensate line (for 90% models). A qualified technician should perform these tasks to prevent costly future repairs and maintain optimal performance.
A faulty igniter can significantly impact furnace performance, leading to reduced efficiency, increased energy bills, and potentially causing the furnace to malfunction or fail. A faulty igniter can prevent the furnace from igniting properly, resulting in incomplete combustion, reduced heat output, and increased emissions. Regular cleaning and inspection of the igniter are essential to ensure proper operation and prevent these issues.
The signs of a cracked heat exchanger include increased energy bills, reduced heat output, and unusual noises or odors coming from the furnace. A cracked heat exchanger can also lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be deadly. If you suspect a cracked heat exchanger, it is essential to shut off the furnace immediately and contact a qualified technician to inspect and repair or replace the heat exchanger.
While some furnace maintenance tasks, such as changing filters, can be performed by homeowners, more complex tasks, such as cleaning and inspecting the igniter, burners, and heat exchanger, require the expertise of a qualified technician. It is recommended to hire a professional to perform annual cleaning and tuning of the furnace to ensure proper adjustment and maintenance of the electronic controls and to prevent costly repairs or safety hazards.
Neglecting furnace maintenance can lead to reduced efficiency, increased energy bills, and potentially costly repairs. Failure to clean and inspect the furnace’s components can result in premature wear and tear, leading to breakdowns and safety hazards. Additionally, a neglected furnace can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be deadly. Regular maintenance helps prevent these issues and ensures safe and efficient operation.
