Is My Furnace Working Properly?

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

A furnace can cause fire in your home if it doesn't have the proper maintenance.

Spring can be an unpredictable season in Hopkinsville, KY, and it is the perfect time to think about a critical part of your home: the furnace. Prevention is a key step to avoid fire damage and fire cleaning. Here are a few simple steps maintaining your furnace and keeping your house safe, warm, and comfortable.

Maintaining your furnace

Turn Your Power Off

Before attempting any maintenance, it is always a good idea to turn the power off. The easiest way to do this is to trip the main fuse at your circuit breaker. If you know the correct breaker for the furnace, you can trip that breaker in particular. If the fuse has blown or the breaker was already switched, you should immediately call a professional and do not perform any other maintenance steps.

Check the Filter

Furnace filters are often used far longer than is recommended. This causes a buildup of dust, which can cause your furnace to work extra and can escalate to more difficult repairs. Filters usually last up to 90 days, but always check your furnace manual and the filter itself before installing. This is the easiest step to avoid needing fire cleaning services in the future.

Inspect the Thermostat

There could be an issue with the thermostat in your home or the furnace’s own thermostat. Check both, and adjust the thermostat up 5 degrees to be sure it is working properly. When you turn the power back on, the furnace should start working.

Notice Any Gas Odors

If your furnace smells of gas, immediately call a professional. Gas leaks are difficult to find and greatly increase the risk of fire damage.

Without proper care, a furnace can cause fire in your home. If you already have damage due to fire or smoke in your home, there are professionals who can assist you in fire cleaning and smoke cleaning. Although furnace maintenance may be the last thing on your mind as the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, it will bring you peace of mind this fall.