As winter approaches, keeping your home warm and comfortable becomes a top priority. Regular furnace maintenance is essential to ensure your heating system runs efficiently and safely all season long. Whether you’re in Fort Smith, Van Buren, or Greenwood, Arkansas, the experts at Riverside Comfort Care are here to help you prepare your system for the cold months ahead.
Why Furnace Maintenance Matters
Before we jump into the tips, it’s important to understand why furnace maintenance should be part of your seasonal home care routine.
A well-maintained furnace:
Heats your home more evenly
Reduces energy bills
Prevents breakdowns and costly repairs
Improves indoor air quality
Extends the life of your HVAC system
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, regular maintenance can improve your system’s efficiency by up to 20%.
Top 21 Furnace Maintenance Tips
Let’s look at 21 practical ways to keep your furnace performing at its best this winter.
1. Replace Your Air Filter Regularly
A dirty air filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder. Change your filter every 1–3 months for optimal performance.
👉 Learn more: How Often to Change Air Filter
2. Check the Thermostat Settings
Ensure your thermostat is working properly and set to “heat.” Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better control and efficiency.
3. Clean Vents and Registers
Remove dust, pet hair, and debris from your vents. This helps warm air circulate freely throughout your home.
4. Inspect the Blower Motor
The blower motor is essential for airflow. If you hear strange noises or notice reduced airflow, it’s time to call a professional.
5. Lubricate Moving Parts
Many older furnace models require lubrication to prevent friction and wear. Our technicians can handle this during a seasonal tune-up.
6. Check the Pilot Light or Igniter
Your pilot light should burn blue. If it’s yellow or flickering, that could signal a combustion issue—call Riverside Comfort Care immediately for safety.
7. Clear the Furnace Area
Keep at least three feet of space around your furnace free from clutter, storage boxes, and flammable materials.
8. Inspect the Air Ducts
Leaky or dirty ducts can reduce system efficiency. Our HVAC Services Near Me include duct cleaning and sealing to improve airflow.
9. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Furnaces that burn fuel can emit carbon monoxide. Ensure your detectors work properly and replace batteries annually.
10. Check for Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors
Even the best furnace can’t overcome drafts. Use weatherstripping and caulk to keep warm air inside your home.
11. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Routine inspections help detect small issues before they become big problems. Schedule Furnace Maintenance each fall for peace of mind.
12. Inspect the Heat Exchanger
A cracked heat exchanger can release harmful gases. Only a licensed HVAC technician should inspect and repair this component.
13. Ensure Proper Ventilation
Blocked or restricted vents can cause your furnace to overheat. Make sure outdoor exhaust pipes and intake vents are clear of snow and debris.
14. Clean the Flame Sensor
Over time, the flame sensor can get dirty and cause your furnace to shut off unexpectedly. Cleaning it requires care—best left to the pros at Riverside.
15. Check the Furnace Belt
A worn or frayed belt can make noise or slip, leading to reduced performance. Have it inspected during your seasonal service.
16. Verify the Power Supply
If your furnace won’t start, check that it’s plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
17. Keep Return Air Vents Unblocked
Blocked return vents can cause pressure imbalances, forcing your furnace to work inefficiently.
18. Balance Your Home’s Airflow
If one room is hotter than the others, your furnace may need balancing. Read our guide:
👉 Is One Room Hotter Than the Others? Here’s How to Fix It
19. Replace Older Furnaces
If your unit is 15–20 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Riverside Comfort Care provides HVAC Replacement Near Me services throughout the River Valley.
20. Test Your System Before Winter Hits
Turn on your heat early in the season to make sure everything runs smoothly before cold weather arrives.
21. Schedule Preventive Maintenance with Riverside Comfort Care
The best way to ensure your system is ready for winter is to schedule a professional tune-up. Our certified HVAC technicians check every component, from burners to airflow, to guarantee reliable performance.
Why Choose Riverside Comfort Care
Local Expertise: Proudly serving Fort Smith, Van Buren, and Greenwood AR
Certified Technicians: Skilled in all major HVAC brands
Comprehensive Services: From AC Services Fort Smith to Heat Pump Service Greenwood AR
Customer-Focused: We treat your home with care and respect
Learn more about our story on our About Us page.
Furnace Maintenance Tips When to Call the Professionals
If your furnace is blowing cold air, making strange noises, or not turning on, don’t wait—call a professional. Riverside Comfort Care can properly diagnose the issue and get your home warm again fast.
📞 Call (479) 353-5266 or visit riversidecomfortcare.com to schedule your furnace maintenance service today.
