If you have a furnace in your new home, you need to make sure that you keep it in great shape. Replacing a furnace can be costly, which is why you need to learn some basic care tips for your furnace. 

Schedule An Annual Or Semi-Annual Inspection

If you want to keep your furnace in great shape, the best way to do so is by scheduling an annual inspection with your local HVAC contractor. During this annual inspection, you'll want to have your service contractor inspect all aspects of your unit and also perform any necessary maintenance and repairs at the same time. This is the best way to keep a good eye on your unit.

Ideally, you should schedule an inspection before you start using your unit, and then again in the spring when you are done using your heating unit for the year. Doing a semi-annual inspection is an even better way to keep your unit in shape. That way, you can make sure it is ready before you start using it and you can ensure that any issues are addressed that may have arisen from being constantly used during the winter months. 

Keep Your Furnace Area Clean

Next, you should keep your furnace area clean. You should not store items around your furnace. Your furnace area is not a storage area. If you have a gas furnace, any items stored against it runs the risk of catching on fire. 

You also need to make sure that your furnace has air flowing around it. Your furnace needs air flowing around it. 

Check Your Furnace's Air Filter

Finally, when you are using your furnace, you should check the air filter on a monthly basis. You should clean your furnace's air filter based on the manufacturer's instructions. If you filter breaks down and gets really dirty, you'll want to replace it. 

If you don't know how to check your air filter, have your HVAC contractor who does your annual inspections show you how to clean and check your air filter. That way, you can check it on your own on a monthly basis. Write a reminder on your calendar so that you know when to check your air filter during the winter months.

By following the three tips above, you should be able to keep your furnace in good shape for many years. Taking proper care of your furnace will help prevent it from degrading or developing large maintenance issues. For more information, contact a company such as United Heating Cooling and Plumbing Inc.