If you rely on a heating oil furnace, there's some routine cleaning and maintenance you should do before the weather gets too cold. This small amount of preventive maintenance will help prevent your system from breaking down when you need it most this winter. Below, learn some tips to extend your furnace's life and functionality. 

What Maintenance Does a Furnace Need?

1. Open the Vents

If your furnace is connected to a central air system, go through all the rooms and open the registers. If the air blows against too many closed registers, it not only means those rooms will stay cold, but it can also damage the furnace. Next, check that the exhaust flue is clear to prevent gas from backing up into the house when your unit burns heating oil.

2. Clean Regularly 

The most important part of cleaning a furnace is to check and replace the air filter. If the filter gets clogged, it can interrupt airflow and make the furnace fans work much harder to draw air through, causing unnecessary wear. Replace the filter at the beginning of the season and every one to three months throughout the winter as needed. Also, clean the burners and vacuum out the interior to remove dust.

3. Inspect the Blower

If your blower uses a belt, check to make sure that it's tight and hasn't gotten frayed or cracked. You should also oil the motor to make sure it can move freely. Look it over for any components that look obviously misaligned, bent, or corroded, and to see if any wiring seems damaged or out of place. Turn the blower on briefly and listen for any unusual noises. If you notice a problem, schedule an inspection with an HVAC technician as soon as possible. 

When your furnace is ready for the season, don't forget to schedule a heating oil delivery from Alaska Petroleum Distribution in Fairbanks, AK. For 37 years, this reliable heating oil company has offered delivery throughout the area and has expanded its fleet to 25 trucks and trailers. To learn more about their services, visit their website or call (907) 488-2575 to schedule an appointment.