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4 Fall Furnace Cleaning Tips To Remember

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Fall is here, which means it's time to get your furnace in working order before the first chill of winter arrives. Chances are you haven't used your furnace since the previous winter, so it'll likely be full of dust, dirt and debris buildup. If you want your furnace to operate at 100 percent, then you'll need to tackle this buildup head-on before you turn it on. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you go over your furnace with a fine-toothed comb:

Clean Up Around the Base of the Furnace

Start by cleaning up any and all debris that has accumulated around the base of the furnace cabinet. You'll also want to get rid of any cobwebs, dust, and debris that's landed on the metal exhaust ducting, as this can produce a burning smell upon startup if it's not cleaned properly.

Replace That Furnace Filter

It should go without saying, but replacing the furnace filter is often one of the most overlooked tasks when it comes to taking care of your furnace. It's always a good idea to replace your furnace filter before starting your furnace, as it's likely collected quite a bit of dust and debris during your furnace's dormancy. Afterwards, you should have your furnace filter changed on a monthly basis, as this will help improve your home's indoor air quality as well as your furnace's performance.

Check the Blower Fan Assembly

There's a good chance the blower fan assembly has a buildup of dust and dirt inside, so it's worth opening up and taking a good look. For most blower fans, you'll need to remove the front access panel as well as the furnace filter and slide the blower fan out after unfastening its retaining screws or bolts.

Start by vacuuming the general area within and around the blower fan housing and then clean off each fan blade. Although most dust and dirt can be wiped off with a damp cloth, you may need a soft-bristle toothbrush to scrub away stuck-on dirt and debris. As you clean each of the fan blades, don't forget to inspect them for any cracks, dents or other signs of damage or wear.

Don't Forget About the Vents

Dust and debris can also collect on and around the supply and intake air vents. To cut down on dust and debris inside your living spaces, you'll want to give your vents a thorough cleaning. Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove as much dust and debris from the vents as possible. In some cases, you may need to remove the vents for a more thorough cleaning.

Contact a company like Moore Heating & Air Conditioning Inc for more information and assistance. 


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