When the cold weather sets in, the last thing you want is a furnace that can’t keep up. The good news? A little maintenance goes a long way. 

With just a few simple DIY steps—and an annual check-up from a professional—you can keep your furnace running efficiently, extend its life, and avoid surprise repair bills.

Why Furnace Maintenance Matters

Just like your car, your furnace needs routine care to perform its best. Giving it a once-over each year helps catch small problems before they become big ones—and can even help lower your energy bills.

Here’s what you can do yourself:

  • Check and replace the air filter monthly. A dirty filter blocks airflow and forces your furnace to work harder, driving up energy use and wear.
  • Inspect and clean the blower. This circulates warm air throughout your home, so clear away any built-up dust or debris.
  • Lubricate moving parts once a year. This reduces friction and prevents mechanical wear.
  • Check the flue pipe for blockages. This pipe safely vents fumes—so keeping it clear is essential.
  • Schedule annual professional service. A licensed tech can spot issues you might miss and keep your system in peak condition.

How Maintenance Saves You Money

Every small bit of upkeep adds up to big savings over time:

  • Avoid costly repairs by catching problems early.
  • Extend your furnace’s lifespan—a well-maintained unit can last 10–15 years or more.
  • Lower your utility bills with a more energy-efficient system.
  • If your furnace does need replacing, investing in a high-efficiency model can save you even more in the long run.

When to Call a Professional

Some furnace tasks are best left to the pros. Contact a licensed technician for:

  • Inspecting and cleaning the heat exchanger
  • Checking the combustion chamber
  • Cleaning the pilot light assembly
  • Replacing the gas valve
  • Replacing the blower motor

While you can handle the basics, having a professional service your furnace once a year is the best way to ensure it stays safe and efficient.

How to Change a Furnace Filter

This is one of the easiest and most important things you can do.

Steps:

  1. Turn off the furnace power.
  2. Remove the old filter.
  3. Insert a new one of the correct size, with arrows pointing toward the unit.
  4. Turn the power back on.
  5. Test the furnace to ensure it’s working.

Pro tip: Change your filter every 1–3 months depending on air quality and filter type.

Cleaning the Blower and Burner

Dust and debris can limit airflow and efficiency. Here's how to clean them:

For the blower:

  1. Turn off the furnace power.
  2. Remove the blower unit.
  3. Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove dust.
  4. Reinstall the blower.

For the burner:

  1. Remove the access panel.
  2. Clean around the burner area.
  3. Reattach the panel when done.

Flue Pipe Inspection

The flue pipe vents fume outdoors. Check it annually:

  • Use a vacuum or brush to clear out any debris.
  • Make sure there are no obstructions or signs of rust or corrosion.
  • If anything looks off—or if you smell gas—call a professional immediately.

Stay Warm and Worry-Free

A little effort goes a long way. By following these DIY furnace tips—and bringing in the pros for the rest—you’ll enjoy a warmer, more efficient home all winter long.

Looking for extra peace of mind? A home warranty from America’s Preferred Home Warranty can help protect your heating system (and more) from unexpected breakdowns. Learn more about our coverage options today.

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