What preventative maintenance is recommended for gas furnaces?

Regular inspection and cleaning of burners and heat exchangers is a crucial aspect of preventative maintenance for gas furnaces. This process ensures that the combustion process is efficient and safe, helps to maximize the furnace's operational efficiency, and extends the lifespan of the unit. Over time, burners can accumulate dirt and debris, which can obstruct gas flow and create issues such as incomplete combustion, leading to lower efficiency and potential safety hazards, including the production of carbon monoxide.

Additionally, the heat exchanger can develop deposits that impede heat transfer, reducing efficiency and potentially causing overheating or failures. By regularly inspecting and cleaning these components, technicians can identify and address problems early, maintain airflow, improve safety, and ensure the system operates effectively during the colder months.

Focusing on the other options, replacing the furnace every three years is not practical or economically feasible, as most furnaces are designed to last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Checking thermostat settings annually is not sufficient maintenance; it overlooks more critical components of the system that require regular attention. Finally, adjusting gas pressure monthly is unnecessary for most systems, as that level of frequency could lead to unnecessary wear and adjustments that are not typical in routine operations.