It may seem a little counterintuitive, but even new furnaces need some attention to keep them running well. The challenge is that many property owners begin by neglecting a new system because it’s new and they think it should work well for a while. Unfortunately, this sets bad habits that can be difficult to break as the system ages. Consider these simple maintenance tips to get the best performance from your furnace, even if it’s a new installation.
Check and Change the Air Filter
One of the first things you’ll need to do after installing a new furnace is change the filter. Regardless of what your changing habits were previously, plan to check the filter every month after it’s installed. Your new system will likely circulate air better than the one you just replaced, so you may need to change your filter more frequently. Keep in mind that the common 1- and 2-inch fillers typically need changing every 30 to 90 days, while larger filters may last longer. Keeping on top of your filter changes ensures that you’ll maintain your new system’s efficiency and get the longest service life from it.
Test Your Carbon Monoxide Detector
Any time you have an appliance that burns fuel like natural gas, propane, or fuel oil, it will produce exhaust gases, one of which is carbon monoxide. While professional furnace installers should check for carbon monoxide leaks during installation, new leaks can become evident at any time. New furnaces with carbon monoxide leaks usually occur because of a manufacturing defect or improper installation. Ensuring that you have a working carbon monoxide detector assures you that you’ll have enough warning to get to safety in the event of a leak.
Keep Your Vents Open and Clear
Regardless of your system’s age, it’s imperative to keep your vents open with sufficient clearance to allow air to circulate. Your system circulates air throughout your home by creating positive pressure at the supply vents and negative pressure at the return vents. Air seeks to equalize the pressure in a container, so the high-pressure warm air will move to equalize at the negative pressure cool air. However, blocked or closed vents will inhibit the system from developing the proper pressure difference, reducing circulation. Consequently, your system’s heating efficiency falls dramatically, adding strain and wear to your system which shaves time from the system’s lifespan.
Leverage Thermostat Programs
If you’re using a standard single-stage furnace, you’ll want to consider how you can leverage thermostat programs. These allow you to easily lower the temperature in your home while everyone’s away for extended periods, like during the day. The Department of Energy (DoE) suggests you can reduce your annual heating costs by up to 10% by reducing your temperature by 7 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit for at least eight hours each day. This also reduces the wear on your system because it’s not having to maintain as high of a temperature, so you won’t as many furnace repairs down the road.
Pay Attention to Noises and Smells
It’s easy to ignore new odors and noises when you install a new furnace, thinking that it’ll work itself out. However, these can also signal a problem with your new system that needs attention. Of concern are burning smells that linger, indicating something’s burning or overheating, or strong chemical smells like formaldehyde, which may signal an exhaust leak. Similarly, pay attention to noises other than the whirl of the circulating fan or a quiet whoosh when the burner first ignites. Any other noises may indicate problems from manufacturing defects or improper installation. Ignored, these could result in needing to replace the unit prematurely while most problems would be covered by the unit’s warranty.
Start Right With Professional Maintenance
Your furnace won’t need maintenance as soon as it’s installed. However, you should start with professional furnace maintenance the following fall. This practice will protect your system’s efficiency and uncover small problems before they cause substantial wear on the system while also protecting your factory warranty.
In 2012, Affordable Service Solutions Heating & Air Conditioning began giving property owners around Richmond a partner they could rely on to keep their homes comfortable. Our family-owned business provides air conditioning and heating maintenance, repair, and installation, including geothermal, together with indoor air quality solutions. Call to schedule a furnace maintenance visit for any unit that’s been installed for at least a year.
