Author: Amanda Triolo

Generally, tank-based water heaters last 8 to 12 years (tankless units are known to last up to 20 years), but there are reasons to consider water heater replacement at any time, regardless of the unit’s age. A person uses hot water up to 20 times a day on average. Therefore, a water heater undergoes a considerable amount of wear and tear during its lifetime. Signs of a failing system should be noticeable, although some appear more subtly as the system ages.

We’ll look at the reasons to replace a water heater in Clifton Park now, so you’re not suddenly without hot water and waiting for a new unit.

1. Inconsistent Water Temperatures

No hot water is surely a sign your water heater needs attention. However, the symptoms of a declining system are often more subtle. Hot water should be between 120℉ and 140℉ and stay at the set temperature. In other words, it should be consistently hot. If the water temperature suddenly starts fluctuating between hot and cold and back again, or hot water starts running out much faster than before, it’s time to consider water heater replacement.

2. Hot Water Looks Rusty

Rust is not good, no matter where it shows up. If your hot water is coming out brown or rusty-looking, chances are there’s corrosion inside the water heater tank. Call a professional if this is so or if you see discolored or cloudy water. The issue could be due to old pipes. But if your water heater is getting up there in age, it could be contributing to rusty tap water.

3. Poor Water Quality

A defunct water heater may not only release water that looks rusty. Water quality may be unsafe. Poor temperature regulation can allow bacteria, many of which can cause illnesses, to form in the water. If tap water has a metallic smell and taste, corrosion in the tank may be wearing it out and causing the lining to deteriorate and break up. Therefore, your water supply ends up filled with particles that shouldn’t be there. 

4. The Water Heater Is Noisy

Tank sediment becomes more problematic as water heaters age. Loud rumbling or banging sounds mean hardened minerals and particles are heating up and being pushed around in the tank, which can eventually cause it to crack. Nonetheless, there can be various sources of noise. If your water heater is becoming louder, it’s best to call a technician to inspect it, find the source, and determine whether you need a repair or water heater replacement. 

5. Water On or Around the Unit

Whether you see water dripping down the side of the water heater or pooling around its base, it’s not a good sign. The tank has likely eroded and is in danger of failing. Leaks can also be caused by loose connections or old pipes. Condensation is another issue to look for; it often causes small pools of water to appear intermittently but can indicate a potentially serious problem. Call a professional if you see any water outside your water heater.

6. Frequent Repairs Are Needed

Even if your water heater is in mid-life, frequent repairs will cost you more than necessary. Premature wear can be due to heavy usage or a lack of maintenance. If you’re calling a plumber once every few months to fix your water heater, replacing it can save you the cost of dealing with more repairs in the future. 

7. Increasing Utility Bills

Hikes in utility rates aren’t uncommon. However, steady or sudden spikes in your water bill are suspicious. Your water heater may be leaking or running inefficiently. Also, monitor your electric bill. If your water heater is working harder to maintain a consistent supply of hot water, replacing it may be the only way to keep your utility bills in check.

8. The Water Heater Is Over 15 Years Old

Kudos if your water heater has lasted this long. But is it working as well as it once did?
The system is most likely less efficient and there’s a higher risk of it breaking down, leaving you without hot water. Schedule an inspection by a licensed plumber as soon as you can. They’ll help determine its condition and whether you have a reason to consider water heater replacement.

Clifton Park, NY Water Heater Replacement Company

At Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we’re experts in high-quality, budget-friendly water heater replacement. Our technicians are EPA- and NATE-certified, so you can expect the best in service. You can reach us 24/7 in an emergency, and we’ll send a team equipped to diagnose and fix the problem or determine whether to replace your system. Financing is available and we’ll even provide a free estimate on your new water heater. Contact us at (518) 241-1642 for assistance.

Source:

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/when-to-replace-a-water-heater/

You shouldn’t wait before your heating system fails to schedule a furnace replacement. Whether your furnace is near the end of its lifespan or not that old, there are many good reasons to consider an upgrade. You can replace your heating system at any time. However, we recommend doing so in the fall before it gets too cold. Winters in Upstate New York tend to drag on for several months, even after the official end of the season, so you’ll appreciate having reliable heat. Here are a few reasons we recommend furnace replacement before your system fails:

You Can Avoid Dealing with a Heater Breakdown or Failure

When a furnace breaks down, it’s usually at the worst time. The high demand during the coldest weather can set a failing system over its limit. Replacing your heating system before the winter season avoids expensive emergency calls. It also avoids paying more to repair or replace the unit compared to the off-season when prices are lower. You also eliminate the costs of frequent repairs, which can add up to more than purchasing a new furnace.

Monthly Energy Bills Can Be Reduced

An aging furnace loses efficiency over time. However, older units also use more energy than newer models. The energy usage of a furnace is determined by its annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). A combustion furnace must have an AFUE of at least 80%; your older unit may be less than that. However, a newer system is likely to have an AFUE of 95% or greater so little, if any, fuel is wasted while producing heat. This results in a substantial decrease in your monthly energy bills.

Your Home Will Be More Comfortable

Signs of a failing furnace include:

• Parts of your home are too warm.
• Some rooms are drafty or too cool.
• The heater runs longer, but your home is less comfortable.
• Your home’s air is too humid.
• There are mold and indoor air quality issues.
• Your furnace makes banging, popping, rattling, or squealing noises.
• Lots of dust and dirt come from duct vents.

Scheduling furnace replacement before the system fails can resolve all these problems, including issues that can impact your health. Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can make life difficult for people with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. Installing a new furnace and changing the air filter regularly will improve IAQ. 

At the very least, every room will be warm and cozy, so your home is the refuge from the winter cold, snow, and ice that it should be.

Your Family’s Safety

An older furnace, especially one over 15 years old, is more prone to issues that can impact your safety. A unit on the brink of failure may leak carbon monoxide (CO), which is deadly despite being colorless and odorless. Issues with ventilation or a cracked heat exchanger can cause CO to build up. If an ignitor, pilot light, or burner malfunctions, it can trigger a fire that may spread beyond the furnace and the space around it, causing extensive property damage. Therefore, furnace replacement should be considered, even if it’s only for the safety of your household.

You Can Avoid Delays In System Replacement

If your furnace fails during extreme weather, limited product availability can cause delays, leaving you without heat for some time. Poor weather and road conditions can prevent a heating contractor from reaching your home quickly. At the very least, options may be limited and you’ll have less time to plan. Therefore, you may end up with a furnace that’s outside your budget or not ideal for your home.

Should You Schedule Furnace Replacement Now?

Furnaces in Clifton Park and surrounding areas work hard throughout the winter. Wear and tear take a toll on your heating system. Considering a replacement sooner allows you to receive professional advice from a heating expert. At Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, our technicians can advise you on the best make, model, and size of heater for your home that runs reliably, quietly, and efficiently and reduces your carbon footprint.

Call Grasshopper Today

You can expect free estimates, upfront pricing, and exceptional service from Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical. Our NATE-certified technicians provide sound advice and customized solutions for your home. High-quality, energy-efficient products, our commitment to customer satisfaction, and our specials and financing options show improving your comfort and well-being is our priority. To schedule furnace replacement before your system fails, call (518) 241-1758.

Skipping yearly furnace maintenance can lead to costly repairs and breakdowns, and there are maintenance steps you don’t want to skip. At Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we offer annual inspections and tune-ups as part of a comprehensive furnace maintenance plan. However, there are some DIY tasks you don’t need a professional for, but that can make a big difference in the health of your furnace.

Before performing any work on your furnace, turn off the appliance and the power at the breaker box. Now, you can proceed with the following furnace maintenance steps:

Clean or Replace the Filter

Depending on the type of filter, clean or replace it every one to three months. Most filters slide in and out of a housing. It’s a simple process, but turn off your furnace first. Otherwise, unfiltered air may be forced through the system and into your home. Make sure the new filter is the same type as the old one and compatible with your heating system. Remove the old filter carefully to avoid spreading dust or debris.

Perform a Simple Thermostat Check

A professional should test and calibrate your thermostat during annual maintenance. However, you can test the thermostat yourself by using a temperature sensor to verify its reading is correct. You can also test fan speeds and system dampers. With the furnace off, inspect the wiring connections and tighten any that are loose. If there’s dust and debris on wires, use compressed air to clear away any dirt.

Inspect the Blower Unit

Your furnace produces heat. The blower fan ensures heated air reaches each room. Once you access the blower, check whether the fan blades are dirty; if so, clear any dust or debris. Call a professional if they appear broken or if there’s an issue that can’t be resolved with simple DIY furnace maintenance. 

The fan wheel should spin without any resistance. Also, check the belts and pulleys for any damage or issues with tension. Other than cleaning the fan blades or lubricating moving parts with oil, call for help if you notice any damage or something out of place. Even minor damage can cause strain on other parts and lead to more costly repairs.

Inspect and Clean the Burners

It doesn’t take carbon and soot long to build up if there’s an issue with the burners. Any buildup can interfere with how your furnace performs. But there are things you can do to address the problem. First, turn off the power and gas. Then, open the panel and vacuum debris from on and around the burners.

Inspect the burners for buildup around the channels and openings where the flame comes from. It can be removed with a brass wire brush. To clear the manifold, remove any debris using a thin wire or paperclip. A dirty flame sensor can be cleaned with a scouring pad, but be gentle to avoid scratching or breaking the housing. However, if the ignitor looks damaged or dirty, hire a professional to replace it.

Check Ductwork

You can’t see all the ductwork without specialized equipment, but you can open grilles and registers to see inside branch ducts. Visible dirt and dust can be vacuumed out. Mold can often be cleaned with a light detergent and a sponge or brush. Wear gloves, a mask, and safety glasses when doing so. You can also use an anti-fungal spray to disinfect the area and prevent the mold from coming back.

Using a flashlight, look for signs of damage to air ducts. Then, inspect visible ductwork in places like the attic, basement, or crawlspace. If there are holes, cracks, spaces between seams, corrosion, or kinked or crushed ducts, call an HVAC contractor as soon as possible.

Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Your carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are a critical line of defense in protecting you from a serious hazard. Although not a part of your furnace, CO detectors should be checked. Testing each unit and changing the batteries (if applicable) will ensure they work should there be a carbon monoxide leak from your heating system. 

Contact Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

It takes experience and training to properly maintain a furnace and spot developing problems. The DIY tips above can help your furnace work more efficiently and last longer. However, don’t forget to schedule annual furnace maintenance or call if you notice issues such as reduced efficiency, short cycling, low air pressure, or reduced heating performance. We follow a comprehensive checklist to prevent major repairs, avoid breakdowns, and ensure your heating system is in peak condition. To schedule service, contact us online or call (518) 241-1762.

Any mistake during furnace installation can jeopardize your safety and lead to a fire or carbon monoxide leak. Temperature fluctuations, humidity issues, and noise are also possible. At the very least, a poorly installed furnace will run inefficiently and increase energy costs, require more repairs, and may not last as long. Therefore, furnace replacement is not a DIY job. The following mistakes can create significant safety hazards:

1. Hiring an Inexperienced Contractor

Finding an HVAC installer that is licensed, certified, and insured is critical. Make sure they have several years of experience installing furnaces. An inexperienced contractor or a handyman doesn’t likely have the knowledge required to complete the job and avoid costly mistakes and safety hazards. Always check a professional’s reviews and background before hiring them; also, avoid going for the cheapest bid.

2. Selecting a Furnace That’s the Wrong Size

One of the biggest furnace installation mistakes is choosing one that’s too big or too small for your home. Bigger is never better when it comes to heating systems. A technician must perform the proper calculations to determine the right size and capacity for any HVAC unit, whether it’s a furnace or air conditioner. 

Don’t automatically assume your old furnace is the right size. It may not be. The load calculation is an important part of the process and ensures your heating unit will work efficiently and operating costs will be kept in check.

3. Poor Ductwork Design and Installation

For your heating system to be safe and effective, your duct system must be properly designed. It will then allow heated air to get to where it’s required. Improperly sized ductwork won’t match the unit’s output capacity. And old ductwork may have leaks that can impact efficiency. 

To avoid efficiency problems, heat loss, and airflow problems, have a professional evaluate your ductwork. They’ll ensure it’s properly sized, sealed, and insulated. An experienced contractor will also ensure a seamless installation of ducts, supply and return vents, ceiling diffusers, etc.

4. Failing to Meet Ventilation Requirements

Poor ventilation or a lack thereof can cause carbon monoxide to build up. This can be a deadly situation for your household. Intake vents, exhaust pipes, flues, dampers, and related components must be correctly installed to avoid a buildup of toxic gases.

5. Installing the Furnace in the Wrong Place

During the furnace installation process, the contractor should identify a spot where the unit can be properly ventilated and they can access it for maintenance and repairs. Registers and return grills must also be installed where there are no obstructions. Meanwhile, placing exhaust vents where they’re unlikely to get blocked improves safety, and the outdoor unit your furnace is connected to should be in an open area where vegetation, leaves, branches, and foliage won’t interfere with its performance.

6. Incorrect Drain System Design

A furnace generates moisture and condensation as it heats the air, which must be drained away. If the drainage system is poorly designed, there’s a risk of leaks and water damage to your home. Water can also back up in pipes and freeze when it’s cold outside, potentially leading to HVAC system failure. Your safety can be jeopardized by mold and indoor air quality issues as well.

7. Installing the Thermostat Incorrectly

Furnace installation involves installing several components, including the thermostat. If it’s not correctly placed and connected, it will have difficulty communicating with your heating system, resulting in poor temperature control that can leave your home dangerously cold or hot. A professional will properly connect the thermostat, calibrate it, and perform tests to ensure the system is capable of effective temperature control.

8. Forgetting to Register the Warranty

The manufacturer’s warranty must be registered for you to take advantage of it if there’s a defect or repair issue. Furnace repairs are often expensive, so it’s important to have warranty coverage. Also, follow all maintenance guidelines (including professional tune-ups and installation) to keep your furnace in peak condition and prevent voiding the warranty.

Call Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical for Furnace Installation

Our experienced NATE-certified professionals provide furnace installation that includes help finding the right make and model of heater for your home. We use only high-quality parts and materials. Customer service is also our top priority, and we are A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau. To schedule furnace installation or replacement or learn more about our specials, maintenance plans, and financing options, call (518) 255-7331 or contact us online.

In this guide to the top 3 HVAC services, our goal is to help you understand what it takes to have a reliable, efficient, and long-lasting heating and cooling system. These primary services—maintenance, installation, and repair—are all crucial in ensuring your air conditioner or furnace works safely and effectively. Here is an in-depth look into each of them.

HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is an important yet often overlooked HVAC service. It can reduce energy consumption and save money on utility bills and repairs. Maintenance can also help put off replacing the system. 

Your HVAC system should be tuned up by a professional twice a year. Your air conditioner should be serviced in the spring and your heater in the fall. During a maintenance visit, a technician will check the thermostat and calibrate it if necessary, tighten electrical connections, and lubricate moving parts. They’ll also inspect and clean the condensate drain, evaporator and condenser coils, and blower components.

Other important tasks only a trained professional can do include:

• Measure the refrigerant level
• Inspect/tighten fuel line connections
• Check gas pressure and burner combustion
• Test the system’s controls/safety features
• Make small repairs

However, there are simpler tasks you can do in between maintenance visits that can help your HVAC system:

• Change the air filter every 30 to 90 days.
• Inspect the system for potential problems (low thermostat battery, clogged condensate drain, damaged flue system, blocked registers, moldy vents, unlevel outdoor unit).
• Remove clutter from the indoor air handler.
• Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, twigs, grass clippings, and debris.
• Test the carbon monoxide detector every month (it can warn of an exhaust leak, gas line problem, or poor ventilation).
• Check your energy bills for unexpected spikes or gradual increases in consumption.
• Install a programmable thermostat to improve temperature control based on demand.

HVAC Installation

Proper installation ensures your air conditioner provides adequate cooling during the summer and your furnace or heat pump keeps your home warm in winter. The key elements of a successful HVAC installation include:

• Sizing an Air Conditioner/Heater: If a unit is too small for your home, it won’t reach the right temperature. But if it’s too big, it can shut off before air fully circulates or humidity can be kept under control. A contractor will include the square footage of your home, the placement of doors and windows, and the sun angle in relation to your home when performing a load calculation, among other factors, to determine the optimal unit size.

• Equipment Placement: An AC or heater must be placed where there’s sufficient room for it and where any noise it makes won’t disturb people in living areas or bedrooms. Outdoor units can be especially noisy. Therefore, plan where you’ll place them before the contractor arrives. The thermostat should be installed away from drafts, ducts, and appliances that can create false temperature readings.

• Ductwork Installation: A new central HVAC unit can sometimes be installed with your existing ductwork. Before doing so, a technician should check the ducts are properly connected and not leaking. If new ductwork is required, the contractor will have to create a floor plan and determine how to complete the installation process with as little disruption as possible. 

• Energy Efficiency: When evaluating HVAC installation costs, it’s important to consider long-term efficiency. An AC’s Seasonal Energy-Efficiency Ratio (SEER) measures efficiency—the higher a SEER rating, the lower your potential energy costs. Furnace efficiency is measured using Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). High-efficiency units are 90% AFUE and higher, while 80% AFUE is standard.

• Cost: The cost of HVAC installation depends on the size of your home, the condition of ductwork, and the quality of your insulation and electrical system (modifications will increase installation costs). The type of equipment, the brand, labor rates, permits, and disconnecting/removing old units also factor into the total cost of the project. Higher efficiency systems, tax rebates, and utility rebates can potentially recoup some of the cost of installation.

HVAC Repair

The peak of the heating and cooling seasons is when HVAC technicians are in the highest demand. An HVAC unit should not be opened, repaired, or tested by anyone other than a trained specialist. When there’s an AC or heater issue, you can:

• Check for and replace a dirty filter
• Make sure air vents are clear and open
• Remove debris from the outdoor unit
• Check the thermostat settings
• See if a circuit breaker tripped 

However, other issues will require an HVAC services professional. Some of the most common types of repairs to call a contractor for include:

• Refrigerant Leak: Refrigerant absorbs heat from inside and releases it outside. A lack of refrigerant or a leak can cause the system to malfunction. Signs of a leak include increased cooling costs, warm air blowing from vents, increased indoor humidity, and hissing noises from the outdoor unit. To fix a leak, a technician may repair or replace a coolant line and then follow a delicate process of adding more refrigerant.

• Condensate Drain Problem: Your HVAC unit produces condensation that the condensate drain line transports away. If it backs up or the drip pan overflows, moisture can damage the system and your home. A float switch may shut the system off. Call for help if water leakage, mold growth, or odors occur. Your local HVAC services company can unclog the drain trap/line or make repairs as needed. 

• Damaged Compressor Fan: The fan helps release heat into the outside air. A malfunctioning fan can impede the heat transfer process, causing the compressor to overheat and shut down. If you don’t feel hot air releasing from the outdoor unit, it makes unusual noises (screeching, banging, clicking, etc.), your home isn’t getting cool, or the circuit breaker keeps tripping, the compressor may need to be repaired or replaced.

• Frozen Evaporator Coil: Ice can form on the coil if airflow is limited. The underlying cause can be a dirty filter or a blocked return duct. You can try to thaw the coils by running the system in fan mode. If the filter is dirty, change it and allow the coils to thaw. However, this is a good time to schedule preventative maintenance and have a technician check the system for any hidden issues.

• Furnace Repair: If your heating system is blowing cold air, temperatures are uneven, the unit is noisy, utility costs are high, or the thermostat doesn’t work, call for help. Furnace problems range from poor connections to faulty ignitors, burners, and cracked heat exchangers. These can be an immediate safety issue, so don’t delay calling for help. A professional can resolve the issue to restore heating, avoid a fire, and prevent carbon monoxide exposure.

Other benefits of professional HVAC repair, installation, and maintenance, aside from improved comfort and safety, include increased efficiency and the potential for a longer equipment lifespan.

Contact Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

We are a trusted HVAC maintenance, installation, and repair company in Clifton Park, NY, and we help keep customers’ AC and heating systems in top shape. Our technicians are trained and experienced; they can address any need or issue, whether the project is big or small. They are available 24/7 in case of an emergency. In addition, our HVAC maintenance plans help reduce the need for repairs and improve reliability and efficiency. To schedule HVAC services in Clifton Park and surrounding areas, call (518) 252-8145 today.

Sealing ductwork without a professional is possible through a few simple methods. It can allow ducts to more effectively distribute cooled or heated air. Ductwork sealing and repair are part of our indoor air quality services at Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical. Professional service can save you in the long run if the issue is substantial. However, if there are just minor leaks in, for example, attic ducts, you can try sealing ductwork yourself to improve comfort, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency.

Here are some easy methods if you want to try DIY duct sealing:

Locate the Air Leak

The first step is to identify the source of a suspected leak. Attic ducts are prone to leakage, so this is the best place to start looking. Ductwork may have been run around joints and bends, leaving it susceptible to damage, or it may have been neglected for several years.

If you find rusted, crushed, kinked, or chewed ducts, it’s time to call a professional. But easy ways to spot a leak include:

• Place a smoke pen near a duct; if the air is escaping, the smoke will blow in one direction.
• Spray soapy water on ducts; bubbles will form if air is rising from inside the channel.

How to Seal a Leaking Air Duct

Here are the most common ways homeowners can seal air ducts and minimize leakage:

Duct Tape

Do not use standard duct tape to patch leaky air ducts. It’s not effective for sealing ductwork and will peel away due to temperature changes. Oriented polypropylene tape and aluminum foil tape are much more effective and can be bought at a local hardware store. For the best results, look for a tape rated for use with HVAC systems. For example, foil tape is wide enough to cover gaps and can remain fixed for some time.

The tape is easy to apply. Just take a roll and wrap unsealed duct connections, spaces, seams, and cracks. Any foil or tin tape that is rated by Underwriters Laboratory (UL) is approved for duct sealing.

Duct Sealant

Avoid using duct seal, which is intended for spaces around electrical wires and conduits. Duct sealant is a thick, pasty, paint-like material you can apply directly to cracks and gaps in ductwork. There are a few ways to apply it. You can scoop it out of a pail and apply it directly with a paintbrush. Or, you can use a caulking gun to place the sealant on the desired area. 

Water-based sealants are easy to clean up and hold up well. Mastic duct sealant provides a tighter seal and a more permanent solution. Also applied with a paintbrush or caulk gun, it hardens on the duct and is difficult to remove. Therefore, consider whether the duct will need to be cleaned or disassembled in the near future. 

When applying mastic sealing, remember to clean the affected area, wear gloves and long sleeves, and wear a mask (especially if no fresh air is available).

Should I Call a Professional for Sealing Ductwork?

The two options above are easy ways to stop air leaks. But they’re not always the most practical or effective, especially if you can’t access leaky ductwork. Even if you sealed a leak or two, there may be one you can’t see. A professional has the tools and methods to successfully seal your ductwork no matter where it’s leaking from.

Aeroseal is a proven method that doesn’t require physical access to the leaky duct. It also doesn’t require removing drywall. The product can only be applied by a trained professional and is suited for any kind of duct. To use it, the technician will find one access point to inject a liquid rubber sealant. As it’s distributed throughout the duct system, it will automatically fill any holes, cracks, or loose connections.

Sealing ductwork will keep the air in and dust out. This applies to both supply and return air ducts anywhere in your home. 

Contact Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

There are a couple of DIY duct sealing methods that won’t cost you much. While they can do the job for a while, a professional can offer a more permanent solution. Leaky air ducts can cause a variety of indoor air quality issues in your home. However, we can find the source of the problem and determine how to resolve it. For more information on sealing ductwork and other ways we can help, call Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical at (518) 241- 1762 today.

There are many DIY heating maintenance steps you can take in addition to scheduling an annual furnace tune-up. The combination of professional check-ups and general upkeep throughout the year will increase your furnace’s performance and efficiency. Here are 12 DIY tips to help your heater remain in peak condition:

1. Properly Clean the Air Filter

Disposable filters should be replaced at least every three months. When you check the filter, look for dust or if the media is covered in a dark gray or black material. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can last six months; some high-end ones can remain efficient for up to a year. Regardless of the filter you have, not cleaning or changing it will reduce airflow, make it hard for your furnace to provide heat, and impact indoor air quality. 

2. Install the Right Filter

Check with your local heating maintenance contractor, a hardware store, or the user manual to determine the right filter to use. Depending on the furnace model, the filter size and type can vary. Installing the wrong one can damage your furnace and HVAC system.

3. Clean the Inside of the Furnace

Cleaning inside the unit is simple. Remove the cover and use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to clean loose dust, dirt, and debris from the base. Also, use the vacuum to clean crevices, gas burners, and the tops of ducts, pipes, and conduits leading into the unit. Vacuum the floor surrounding the furnace as well. If especially handy, attach a ½-inch drain line to the vacuum hose to clean out the burner and blower cavities.

4. Check that the Burner Flames Are Blue

With the cover open, turn on the furnace and raise the temperature on the thermostat. The burner flames should be blue. If they’re yellow or any other color, there’s a combustion problem and you should call for help right away.

5. Clean the Flame Sensor

The flame sensor should slide out easily from its bracket. If it’s coated in residue, the furnace may not ignite. Use a fine emery cloth to clean the residue off gently. Then slide the flame sensor back into place.

6. Blow Dust/Dirt off the Pilot

A drinking straw doubles as a handy tool. Direct it at the pilot and blow into it to remove dust from the area. If the pilot is dirty, a flame sensor or thermocouple can falsely read that it isn’t lighting.

7. Dust the Hot Surface Ignitor

If you have a newer furnace with a hot surface ignitor, carefully detach the ignitor element and hold it by the base, or depending on the model, leave the ignitor in place. Touching the metal or the spark wires can leave behind skin oil that can damage the part. Use a scuff pad to gently clean the metal surface.

8. Check for Drive Belt Wear

If your furnace has a belt-driven blower, the belt may occasionally need to be adjusted or replaced. When inspecting the belt, check if it’s cracked or frayed. You can try tensioning a loose belt if you know how, but it’s best to let a professional make any adjustments or repairs.

9. Declutter the Area Around Your Heater

Don’t store boxes, containers, tools, or toys around the furnace. Clutter can cause the unit to run inefficiently and make it hard to access. This may not sound like furnace maintenance, but it can go a long way in helping the system work better.

10. Vacuum Air Registers and Return Vents

Removing dust from registers and vents is an effective way to help your furnace run smoothly. Any type of blockage can restrict airflow and cause all kinds of trouble. Also, make sure no furniture, storage cabinets, or toys are covering these openings.

11. Adjust the Dampers

The ductwork serving both your heating and cooling system may have dampers that need seasonal adjustments. The markers on dampers or duct walls will show you how to adjust them. Moving the damper handle on the supply trunk enables the system to deliver more warm air downstairs in winter or more cold air upstairs in summer.

12. Replace Thermostat/Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries

If your thermostat is battery-operated, change the batteries at least once a year or if the unit doesn’t respond to commands or the screen doesn’t light. A malfunctioning thermostat can cause your heating system to be ineffective. Also, remember to change your carbon monoxide detector batteries. This safety feature doesn’t improve furnace performance but will alert you if toxic gas is present and there’s a potential furnace problem.

Contact Grasshopper for Heating Maintenance

Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical provides professional furnace tune-ups in Clifton Park, NY, and surrounding areas. Filter replacement, coil and burner cleaning, electrical wiring checks, thermostat calibration, and an air pressure and start-up check are included in our maintenance program. The preventative measures our NATE-certified technicians take can protect your home and help your furnace last longer. Call (518) 254-8263 to schedule service.