If you live in a place where the winter months are long and cold, taking care of your gas furnace is a priority. You can make sure its performance,  and  your comfort, are maximized by doing some simple maintenance and conducting routine inspections.

Ensure the free movement of warm air throughout your home by keeping warm air registers, return air openings and space or baseboard heaters clear of objects like rugs, curtains and furniture.  While you’re at it, remove register grills and vacuum out any dust and pet hair collected there, blocking airflow.

As for the furnace itself, remove any obstacles immediately around it so that air can flow freely around the unit, and make sure there are no flammable items such as chemicals, rags or paint in its vicinity.  Clean or replace the furnace filter at least every couple of months throughout the hearing season.  This is essential, as a clogged filter will reduce the flow of warm air and could make your furnace work overtime.  Be sure to turn off the power switch before opening the access door to check the filter.

Ultimately, the best thing you can do for your furnace is to have it annually inspected by a licensed professional.  A contractor knows your furnace equipment  inside and out and will ensure it runs at peak efficiency and lasts longer.  They will test for leaking gas pipes and carbon monoxide, as well as inspect the furnace’s heat exchanger, ignition system, fan motor, filter, pilot, exhaust burners and more.  Having an inspection performed is well worth the relatively inexpensive fee when you consider the savings tha twill reflected on your bill year after year.