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Cleaning the Heat Exchanger Tubes in Your Furnace

Posted on: October 25, 2022

Technician inspecting a furnace.

September to December is the ideal time to get your furnace tuned up in Texas, as this is when temperatures start to drop, and you need your heating system running at its most efficient.

Learn DIY tips to improve furnace performance and the importance of cleaning heat exchanger tubes.

DIY Tips for Cleaning the Heat Exchanger Tubes in Your Furnace

Cleaning the heat exchanger tubes in your furnace is an important part of maintaining your home’s heating system. This process helps remove any buildup that can lead to poor performance or even a complete breakdown of your furnace.

Keeping the heat exchanger clean through regular maintenance is especially important in Texas due to our chilly winters and high humidity levels.

Here are some tips on how to clean the heat exchanger this winter:

  1. Turn off all power to the furnace at the breaker box before you begin cleaning. Make sure no power is going to the unit by testing it with a voltage tester and checking for sparking when resetting the breaker. Make sure the thermostat is also turned off.
  2. Locate your furnace’s heat exchanger and access panels. These can usually be found near the bottom of the unit, but it’s best to check your owner’s manual for instructions on reaching the area you need to clean.
  3. Disassemble any parts of the furnace needed to get to your heat exchanger. Again, ensure you follow manufacturer-specific instructions carefully when removing these parts, so you don’t risk damaging them or yourself.
  4. Clean out all dust and buildup from inside your heat exchanger with a vacuum or other tool designed specifically for this purpose. Wear protective gear, including a face mask and gloves, while cleaning to avoid breathing in any harmful particles. If possible, remove the heat exchanger from your furnace entirely to make this process easier.
  5. Carefully reassemble all parts of your furnace once you’ve finished cleaning the heat exchanger, and ensure everything is properly connected and in its proper place. It’s important to follow all manufacturer-specific instructions carefully when doing this so as not to damage anything.
  6. Turn on your furnace and test it by setting the thermostat above room temperature until the unit kicks on. Check for any unusual noises or smells coming from the heat exchanger when the unit is running to ensure everything is working properly.

By taking the time to regularly clean your furnace’s heat exchanger, you can help protect your home from damage and keep your heating system functioning at peak efficiency.

For more information and tips on how to maintain other aspects of your HVAC system, contact a professional maintenance technician.

The Benefits of Professional Furnace Maintenance

Annual maintenance appointments with a professional HVAC technician keep your furnace running smoothly throughout winter.

A professional can inspect your system thoroughly and make any necessary repairs or adjustments to improve its performance, helping you avoid costly breakdowns in cold weather and ensuring your home stays comfortable all season.

Whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional, getting your furnace tuned up this fall is important in ensuring you stay warm and comfortable.

Schedule a furnace tune-up today with SM Air by contacting us online or calling (512) 212-4777.