During the winter, your furnace works tirelessly to keep your home warm and cozy. With spring rolling around, it may need some end-of-season maintenance before you switch on the air conditioning. Without maintenance, a furnace may not work quite right when you turn it back on in the fall. Here are three useful tips for preparing your furnace for its spring and summer rest. 

How to Prepare a Furnace for Spring

1. Clean the Outdoor Condenser

Outside your home, you’ll find a pipe called a condenser. The condenser brings air into your home. Keep it free of leaves, dirt, and other debris that may hinder air quality. Use a pressure washer to give the condenser a thorough cleaning.

2. Clean the Indoor Unit 

Throughout the spring and summer, your furnace may accumulate dust and debris that may obstruct airflow when you turn it back on in the fall. When exposed to heat, dust and debris may start to smell like burnt ash or pose a fire hazard. Keep your furnace dust-free by turning it off and using a vacuum with a hose attachment to clean every accessible part, including the fan and blower motor. Then, wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Finally, replace the filter to ensure you’ll have clean air.

3. Inspect the Ducts & Vents

Over the winter, dust often builds up in ducts and vents and blocks airflow. These blockages take a toll on a home’s air quality as well as the efficiency of the HVAC system itself. As spring arrives, inspect all your ducts and vents, and clean any that seem dirty with a vacuum with a hose attachment.

To protect your heating and air conditioning system all year long, turn to Floodwood Gas & Electric Co. Inc. Serving homes and businesses across northeastern Minnesota, in St. Louis County,  Itasca, Northern Carlton, and Aitkin counties, this family-owned and -operated company has more than 50 years of experience providing comprehensive HVAC services, including maintenance, repairs, and installations. They also deliver propane, clean ventilation systems, and provide 24/7 service for heating and air conditioning emergencies. Learn more about their offerings online, and call (218) 476-2249 to schedule an appointment for furnace maintenance today.