If you have a gas furnace, it is essential to know that it may create some carbon monoxide that is discharged outside your home through the furnace’s vent. Carbon monoxide is an odor-free and pale gas that can cause flu-like symptoms, disorientation, confusion, and even death.
A neat, efficiently burning gas furnace produces minimal amounts of carbon monoxide, while a dirty, inefficiently burning one can produce deadly amounts. Newer gas furnaces are equipped with many features that shut the furnace off when any problems are identified, but older furnaces may not have these safety devices.
Here are some tips and answers to FAQs
1. How does a furnace work?
After you set your thermostat to the desired temperature or program a temperature schedule, the thermostat sensor monitors the temperature and calls on the furnace for heat when needed. The furnace control board switches on the induced draft motor, and the pressure switch senses a pressure change, leading to the igniters activating. The fuel is released to the burners, igniting the heat exchanger(s) in sequence. A flame sensor allows fuel flow to continue as long as it is burning. The blower fan moves heat into the ducts and limit switches monitor the airflow.
2 . Why should I have my furnace maintained?
In the middle of a cold winter day is the worst time for your furnace to stop working. You want to make sure any issues are identified earlier. Even if your furnace does not stop working, it might be performing poorly, resulting in more strain on your equipment. Replacing a furnace is expensive compared with the cost of a few periodic checkups and routine maintenance.
3. Can I inspect the furnace myself?
By all means, check and change your filters, but unless you are a qualified HVAC technician, it is not safe to attempt to inspect your own furnace thoroughly.
4. What should I do before the furnace inspection?
Before the technician arrives, help ensure everyone’s safety by clearing the furnace room of any clutter and having a clear path to the equipment. Replace bulbs to provide adequate lighting. It is a good idea to have a spare furnace filter on hand. The technician can then check the filter system and install the new filter for you if needed. For everyone’s safety, separate and keep your children and pets away from the work area.
Contact the expert technicians at Snell Plumbing Heating & Air to keep your gas furnace running smoothly!
