Maintaining Your Home Furnace

TotalProtect technicians know that, while keeping all your major home systems in good working order is important, there is one that is especially critical: your furnace. Dependable indoor heating, particularly in the winter months, isn't a luxury — it's a necessity. Following some easy maintenance steps can help make sure your oil or gas furnace is always up to the task.

Safety First!

Before you do any maintenance on your home furnace, make sure to shut off the electrical power and the fuel supply. Determine where the fuel supply is located and know how to turn it off safely. Likewise, locate the electrical switch that controls the power to the furnace and make sure it's off.

Clean the Dirt

The biggest problem you'll face with a home furnace is the dirt that gets trapped in it. This can waste fuel and render the furnace less efficient. Three basic parts are affected: the filter system, the blower and the motor. These all need regular care and cleaning in addition to annual maintenance checkups.

Replace the Filter

TotalProtect Home Warranty technicians recommend that you change furnace filters monthly during peak usage to allow your system to work at maximum capacity and to prevent wear or breakage. A dirty filter can cause excessive strain on your furnace and lead to higher heating bills.

Check Your Vents

Another tip from the TotalProtect team: check that all vents in your home are open and clear, so warm air from your furnace can flow efficiently. Make sure there are no household items blocking any of the vents — this is inefficient and a potential home fire hazard. It may seem obvious, but people often miss spots: like long drapes that block a floor vent, for example, or furnishings like chairs and couches pushed up against a wall vent. Other common culprits include large plants, decorative tables and coat racks.

TotalProtect to the Rescue

Even with responsible, regular maintenance, furnaces sometimes inexplicably break down. Rather than just hoping for the best, consider a TotalProtect Home Warranty. It helps protect your budget from the high costs of unexpected repairs and replacements due to normal wear and tear. It covers your major home appliances and systems, including your refrigerator, water heater, A/C system and more. See why our customers love us, then call to get your instant quote today.

The information in this article is intended to provide guidance on the proper maintenance and care of systems and appliances in the home. Not all of the topics mentioned are covered by our home warranty or maintenance plans. Please review your home warranty contract carefully to understand your coverage.