Modern heating systems are not usually troublesome. However, in those rare moments when a problem crops up, immediate repair becomes a necessity if you do not want your family to freeze. In most occasions, you can troubleshoot and rectify the problem yourself. Heating System Repair generally involves cleaning the filter.

Heating System Repair: Filter Maintenance

When the filters get clogged with debris, the system's efficiency decreases and the parts begin wearing out faster. For proper heating system maintenance, you must first understand the type of filter installed in your system. There are three types of filters:

Permanent air screen - Follow the manufacturer's recommendations to clean this type of filter.

Disposable filters - Check this filter periodically and during the winter months, clean them on a monthly basis.

Pleated fabric filters - These are an inexpensive variety which helps in reducing dust and allergens. These too must be cleaned periodically.

To change and clean these filters, first turn off the unit and then follow these steps:

1. Look for the panel which conceals the blower. In some systems, this panel is marked as 'filter'. To remove it, you have to either lift the panel off the hooks or unscrew it.

2. Standard filters are usually placed beside the motor. Slowly slide the filter out. Check the information mentioned at the edge to know the type of filter. Directions for cleaning are also usually mentioned at the same place. If the filter is of disposable type, take note of its size written on the frame's edge.

3. Purchase a replacement according to the specifications mentioned in the filter.

4. Slide the replacement into the place after noting the direction of the arrows marked on the sides. (The arrows indicate the direction of airflow.)

5. Since you have opened the furnace, vacuum clean the area round the blower. For intensive cleaning, slide out the fan and clean each blade.

6. The blower motor will have oil ports located near the shaft. Remove the cover plate and add few drops of non-detergent oil into the ports. Contemporary motors do not requisite lubrication. However, motors that have oil ports must be lubricated on a yearly basis.