Important Furnace Parts To Maintain
The furnace system is made of several unique parts; each requires its own care and attention. Most homeowners don’t know this, but the most common furnace repairs can be avoided with routine maintenance and basic technical care.
Alternatively, homeowners who specifically care for specific furnace parts are rewarded with lower utility bills, higher indoor air quality, reliable heating, and a long-lasting furnace system.
What furnace parts should homeowners maintain? It’s simpler than you think; here are two vital furnace parts to maintain for optimal heating and home comfort.
Furnace Parts: The Flame Sensor
The flame sensor is part of the burner assembly and looks like a small blade or stick. Its responsibility is to detect whether a live flame is lit when the gas valve opens during the heating process. If you ever need a replacement, the flame sensor is relatively cheap when it comes to furnace parts. However, the cost of replacement furnace parts themselves is least important.
Since the flame sensor’s function is vital to the safety of the home and furnace, a compromised part could cause serious hazards.
Several furnace parts work together to jumpstart and deliver heating. During this process, the flame sensor protects the home from a potentially unsafe situation. If the flame sensor detects no heat when the gas valve is open, the furnace flips the safety switch, causing the entire system to shut down. If the flame sensor does detect heat when prompted, heating resumes as a part of normal operation. Issues arise when the flame sensor cannot get a proper reading.
This happens when debris or tough buildup coats flame sensor. As a result, the buildup blocks the flame sensor from an accurate reading.
What causes buildup?
- A dirty air filter
- Microbiological growth
- Organic waste and obstruction
- Grease and oil
How can homeowners protect their furnace parts, especially the flame sensor? Furnace maintenance from an HVAC contractor is the best way to care for the flame sensor.
When inspecting your furnace, an HVAC contractor will:
- Remove buildup clogging the area
- Reset the wirework to the burner assembly furnace parts
- Clean or replace the flame sensor
- Test for proper performance and accurate heat sensing
Furnace Parts: Air Duct
The air duct transports air in and out of the home and furnace system. It is one of the most vital furnace parts. When it experiences damages, homeowners are sure to notice.
Damaged air ducts result in:
Poor indoor air quality
In most homes, air ducts are stored in the attic. Unfortunately, most attics never receive the same type of care and attention as the rest of the home. Typically, attic air is full of bacteria, particles and allergens.
If air ducts show leaks, all these particles enter the airstream and the home. Homeowners almost immediately notice a huge dip in air quality.
Enormous heat loss
With an air duct has leaks or tears, heated air escapes while cold, dirty air enters. As a result, home temperature never reaches the number set on the thermostat. The furnace repeatedly prompts heating, while clean and heated air spill into the attic with each turn.
High utility bills
Because compromised air ducts lead to poor indoor air quality and significant heat loss, high utility bills are expected.
How can homeowners protect air ducts and other furnace parts?
First, homeowners should keep the attic space free of obstruction. Second, air duct leaks need to be sealed or repaired. Third, homeowners are encouraged to insulate air ducts. This not only adds an additional layer of protection, it also prevents heat loss.
Get Help from Service Champions HVAC Experts
Service Champions is the Diamond Certified HVAC provider for Orange and Los Angeles Counties. We lead in furnace parts repair, maintenance and installation.
Homeowners trust us to deliver results and we are committed to your total satisfaction. Our high-quality service includes exceptional customer care and technical approach, protecting both you and your furnace.
To meet your expert, complete the form linked here. You can also speak to our helpful representatives for more information.