Homes require periodic maintenance.  Here are some helpful hints for you.












Furnace

No matter what the age of your furnace, you can improve energy efficiency by keeping it in good working order. A few simple furnace maintenance tasks will ensure you’re getting the most for your energy dollar.

Change or clean your furnace filter
When was the last time you changed or cleaned your furnace filter? Failing to check the filter regularly can be costly: dust and dirt can work their way into the blower and coil assemblies, reducing the furnace's operating efficiency and eventually damaging the motor.

In fact, heating technicians say more than half their service calls are caused by simple dust and dirt clogging up vital motor parts!

Most dealers recommended changing disposable filters once a month, or cleaning reusable filters every other month.

Clear outdoor exhaust vents

During the winter, be sure to clear snow and ice away from the intake and exhaust vents outdoors. If the vents become blocked, dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can back up into the house, and the furnace could shut down.

Schedule an annual tune-up

An annual checkup by a service technician is also a good idea - especially if you have a natural gas system. The technician will check the flues and temperature settings, examine the heat exchanger for cracks, and check the safety mechanisms.

A $50-$100 annual tune-up can reduce your heating costs by five percent – and it’s the best prevention against deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.

More do-it-yourself maintenance

Other easy ways to keep your furnace running efficient include:

  • Check the owner's manual to see if the blower motor should be lubricated. If you have an older heating unit, you might need to add a drop or two to each oil port.
  • Replace frayed belts.
  • Check flues or vents for cracks or blockages.
  • Check the condensate drain to make sure it is properly attached and flowing freely.
  • Remember to read your owner's manual carefully before doing any maintenance work, and always shut off power at the service panel first.


Air Conditioner

With good maintenance, your air conditioner should last about 15 years. You can keep your system running efficiently with these easy tips:

Check all hose connections for leaks, and make sure the condensate tube is draining freely.

Change or clean the furnace filter once a month. This is especially important during the summer when dust and allergens circulate.

  • Clean the outside compressor by spraying it with a hose.
  • Keep plantings at least one foot away for adequate airflow around the entire unit.
  • Vacuum registers and air vents regularly.
  • Have your ductwork professionally cleaned every few years.
  • Keep furniture and drapes away from registers.
  • During the winter, keep the compressor covered and remove window air conditioners.

While you’re working around your air conditioner, be sure to shut off the power at the service panel before you start.


Water Heater and Plumbing

Your water heater generally is an easy-care appliance. There are only three regular maintenance tasks to remember:

  • Once every three months, drain one gallon of water from the tank. If you have hard water, do this every month. This reduces the amount of sediment collecting in the bottom of the tank, which can make the burner or heating coils work harder.
  • Once every two years, have your water heater inspected by a service technician. This will help keep it in peak operating condition, and will prevent dangerous carbon monoxide problems.
  • Once every five years, have a service technician replace the anode rod. This small metal device sacrifices itself for the good of the entire unit: instead of attacking the tank itself, the corrosive chemicals in the water are drawn to the anode rod.

And don't forget: Before doing any maintenance on your water heater, shut off power at the service panel and read your owner's manual. Some repair attempts you make could void the warranty.



Appliances

Don't forget that maintaining your appliance properly will help keep them operating efficiently - and keep your energy bills low.

Maintaining your Dishwasher

  • If mineral deposits are building up inside your dishwasher, place a small container with one cup of vinegar in each rack. Doing this once a month will help dissolve existing deposits and prevent future build-up.
  • Cover any damaged tines with rubber tips (available from a home center or appliance dealer).
  • Check the rubber water supply hoses once a year. If they're cracked or starting to harden, replace them with new ones (available at most home centers and hardware stores).

Maintaining your Refrigerator

  • Vacuum the condenser coils regularly to remove dust and debris. Once a year is the minimum; if you have pets, two or three cleanings a year will help keep it running efficiently. Coils will be in the back on older models, underneath on newer models.
  • Check the seal on the gaskets by closing the door on a dollar bill. If you can pull the bill out easily, replace the gaskets. To keep gaskets pliable, rub them with oil or petroleum jelly occasionally.
  • If you have a manual-defrost model, don't let the frost build up more than a quarter inch.
  • If you have a built-in icemaker or water dispenser, replace the filter every six months. Be sure to turn off the water source before disconnecting the line.

Maintaining your Cooking Appliances

  • Check the gasket that seals the oven door too - if it's cracked, brittle or falling off, replace it.
  • Clean your oven and range burners often. Baked-on messes can increase energy use and shorten the life of the heating element.
  • Have your natural gas stove inspected by a professional every two years. If the pilot light or burner flames appear more yellow than blue, have it checked immediately.
  • If a spillover occurs on your gas stove, clean the holes in the burner port with a straight pin. Avoid using a toothpick, which can break off inside the port.
  • Replace the heating elements on electric ranges and ovens every ten years.
  • Use your oven's self-cleaning feature immediately after cooking, while the oven is still hot. This will reduce a lengthy warm-up time.

Maintaining your Washer & Dryer

  • Clean the lint filter every time you use the dryer.  A clogged lint screen can make your dryer use up to 30 percent more energy - and it's a fire hazard.
  • Twice a year, check the dryer vent hose for cracks or tears, and clean out any accumulated lint. If you need to replace it, look for one made of aluminum or steel. Avoid using flexible plastic ducting, as it punctures easily and isn't fireproof.
  • Make sure the outside dryer vent is clear, and don't let snow cover it during the winter.
  • Check the gasket on the dryer door. A loose or brittle gasket will allow heated air to escape. You can purchase or order a new gasket from your local appliance dealer or directly from the manufacturer.


    back to top