Winters here in Kansas City, MO can be brutal, with temperatures generally ranging between 20 and 25 degrees Fahrenheit. As we’re fast approaching winter, September is the ideal time for homeowners in the area to complete a DIY furnace checkup. Here at Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we understand that furnace inspections and repairs can be quite expensive. By completing a basic furnace inspection, Kansas City homeowners can ensure their furnaces work effectively and optimally throughout the winter months. Let’s take a look at what homeowners should do. Always remember to turn off the electrical switch that controls the power supply to your furnace before completing any of these DIY furnace steps.
Clean or Replace Air Filters
To complete basic furnace inspections, we advise Kansas City homeowners to begin with the air filters. A dirty filter serves as an unnecessary burden on your furnace, reducing its effectiveness and drastically shortening its lifespan. Additionally, a dirty filter generally translates to higher energy costs. You should clean or replace air filters once every month. If you have a reusable filter, simply rinse away the dust particles that have accumulated into your sink and then put the filter back in place. If you have a disposable furnace filter, which generally has a cardboard frame, it might be time for you to replace it. It is very important that your replacement is the exact same size (the measurement is printed on the edge of the filter). If your filter has a plastic or metal frame, it is a permanent filter that you can clean and reuse.
Lubricate Bearings
Many furnaces feature two motor bearings and two blower shaft bearings that require annual lubrication. You should thoroughly clean around the oil caps and remove the caps themselves. Apply two to three drops of lightweight machine oil and replace the caps. Remember not to over-lubricate during your furnace inspection because it can lead to leakage around the motor bearings.
Inspect the Heat Exchanger
One of the most important parts of your furnace, the heat exchanger separates the flame and exhaust gases from the air in your house. The condition and status of the heat exchanger is so important because it prevents deadly carbon monoxide from flowing into the air you and your family breathe. You should check to see if the heat exchanger is cracked or appears damaged in any way. If it does appear cracked, immediately schedule for a furnace replacement in Kansas City. You can give us a call at (913)-441-8900 so one of our licensed technicians can help you solve this major problem.
Furnace inspections can be expensive. As a homeowner, these are basic DIY furnace inspection steps you can take on your own. But if there appears to be a serious problem with your furnace, you will need the assistance of a licensed technician. For a furnace inspection in Kansas City, please contact us today!
