Furnace Blower Maintenance -- How To Save Like A Pauper But Live Like A King
by Greg Leisgang on April 3, 2012
Posted in: Furnaces
The person who proclaimed that "ignorance is bliss" could not possibly have been a Cincinnati homeowner with a furnace to maintain. Knowing a few things about furnace blower maintenance will help you save money like a pauper but enjoy a consistently warm castle, just like a king.
To begin, track down your furnace's owner's manual. It should contain a diagram that will help you identify the blower and other nearby components. If you have a forced-air furnace, the blower is called into action when your thermostat sends a signal for heat. This signal sets in a motion a series of events: The burners turn on and warm up the heat exchanger. The blower then starts, pulls air through the return duct and sends the heated air through your home via the supply ducts.
The blower is a workhorse and must be kept clean to operate efficiently. Here's what to do:
- To remove it, you'll probably need a socket and ratchet to remove the bolts that hold the blower in place. Lift it out carefully and set it aside.
- First, remove dust and dirt around the blower and the blades with a wet cloth or a vacuum. The goal here is to remove the dust, not just push it around. As you clean, be gentle around the wiring and counterweights.
- While you have your furnace open, check the air filter. If it's clogged with dirt and dust, replace it. In general, the cleaner the filter, the cleaner the blower is likely to be. Still, don't be alarmed if you must replace the blower at some point. It will be cheaper to replace it than the entire furnace.
Even if you decide to occasionally clean your furnace blower, enlist the help of a professional every year. Preventive maintenance programs will include an inspection and cleaning of the blower, and maximize its efficiency.
Furnace blower maintenance can be tricky, and it's critical that it be done right to keep your furnace in top working order. After all, the last thing you want is a breakdown, right in the middle of a frigid Cincinnati winter. Call the furnace experts at Tri-County Heating & Cooling for assistance. After more than 40 years in business, we know our way around a furnace—as well as how to keep your castle warm all winter long.
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