Heating Equipment Maintenance and Repair
A majority of the homes are equipped with central heating systems. Furnaces, air conditioners, air delivery ductwork, air cleaners and other components help provide warmth in a home. These equipments are known as the comfort systems. When these comfort systems function properly they provide comfort regardless of outdoor weather conditions. However if they break down at an inconvenient time the comfort goes out of the window. Most heating systems operate reliably for a long time if they are well maintained. Although it is always better to have a professional heating-and-air contractor or furnace repair technician handle major problems, there are a number of tasks that you can handle yourself to keep things running smoothly.
Furnace Maintenance
Furnace is frequently used during the winter months. Therefore, it is advisable to check the furnace filter periodically to avoid any break down. It is recommended to clean or if necessary to replace a disposable furnace as and when required. Before the start of the winter or any heating season clean the blower blades and seal any air leaks in ducts with a duct tape. Oil the bearings and the fan motors frequently or as per the direction of the manufacturer’s manual.
Air Conditioner and Heat Pumps
Keeping the equipment dust free and clean prevents the common problems. However, if the heat pump or the air conditioner does not function properly there are a few common tips that can be tried out before calling up the furnace technician. Cleaning the blower fan blades will reduce the noise of the air-conditioner. Tighten the mounting bolts and lubricate the oil cup as per the direction of the manufacturer. If the frost is found on the evaporator coil then switch off the air conditioner. This is because the atmospheric temperature is below 60 degrees.
A central heating system has a primary heating appliance such as furnace or boiler. It delivers heat throughout the house either by pumping warm air through the system ducts or by sending hot water or steam through pipes to radiators or convectors. Most repairs and maintenance of the heating and cooling equipment require the same set of tools. The tools are mainly screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, hammer and flashlight.