- Change your furnace filter at least 4 times a year. Even if it looks clean, it is still recommended to change the filter. Often furnaces break down because the filter has not been changed and it is clogged with dirt. This restricts the airflow and put your furnace fans and motors under stress. Changing the filter is a cheap and easy way to keep your furnace healthy.
- Have an annual maintenance checkup and ensure your furnace is serviced once a year. The blower and the motor should be checked by a professional.
- Consider signing up for a heating protection plan. National Home Services heating protection plan offers unlimited service calls and same day service. That way, if your furnace breaks down, you can get it fixed right away without an unexpected expensive repair bill. The repair cost is covered by your monthly protection plan fee.
- Call an expert when your furnace malfunctions. Don't try to fix it yourself. In Ontario, you want to ensure your technician is licensed to work on your type of equipment, whether it is electric or natural gas powered.
- If you have done any renovations, have your air ducts cleaned to remove dirt and dust.
Bonus tip: To protect your home and family, test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working properly. Replace the batteries as needed and make sure you have one of each detector on every floor in your home.
