Keep your Furnace Filters Running Smoothly

How Gas Furnace Filters Work

When your furnace circulates the air in your home, dust and dirt particles build up on the filter. Excessive accumulation can block the airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder to maintain a constant temperature. The harder your unit has to work, the more energy it uses.

Gas Furnace Maintenance

Disclaimer

The following information is for educational purposes only. Tampering with your system may void your warranty. If you have any questions about your system, call a Trane Comfort Specialist™.

Homeowner DIY maintenance

Caution

If you are performing any kind of gas furnace maintenance, turn off the gas line. The valve to turn off your gas line should be located near the gas meter.

Look

Look at the flames in the burner. You should see a steady blue flame. If you see yellow or orange flicking, call a specialist to determine if something other than natural gas is burning.

Listen

Listen for questionable noises or vibrations while the furnace is on. If you hear any unusual sounds, ask your technician for guidance.

Smell

Smell for any gas leaks. If you smell gas, do not try to light any appliance. Do not touch any electrical switch. Do not use a phone in your building. Immediately call a gas supplier from your neighbor’s phone. Remember, you may not be able to smell fuel gases. Carbon monoxide detectors are recommended and should be installed according to all local laws and regulations.

Alert

In the event that electrical, fuel or mechanical failures occur, immediately turn the gas supply off at the manual gas valve on the gas pipe before turning off electrical power to the furnace. Contact a qualified service agency as soon as possible.

Do not use this unit if any part has been under water. A flood damaged unit is extremely dangerous. Attempts to use the furnace can result in fire or explosion.

Dealer Maintenance

To ensure proper operation of your furnace, the recommended dealer inspection is once a year - before the heating season. A Trane expert will check your furnace installation for the following items:

All flue product carrying areas external to the furnace (i.e. chimney, vent connector) are clear and free of obstruction.
The vent connector is in place, slopes upward and is physically sound without holes or excessive corrosion.
The return air duct connection(s) is physically sound, is sealed to the furnace and terminates outside the space containing the furnace.
The physical support of the furnace should be sound without sagging, cracks, gaps, etc., around the base so as to provide a seal between the support and the base.
The burner flames are in good adjustment without erratic flames.
Fresh air inlet and vent are not blocked and free from obstruction. The horizontal or vertical vent and inlet must be located at least 12 inches minimum (18 inches in Canada) above the normally expected snow accumulation level.