When cold weather hits, furnaces across the country are fired up in anticipation. But long before you flip that switch, check out your furnace to ensure safety for those in your home.

How to Maintain Your Furnace

Regular inspection and maintenance of your furnace is crucial to the safety of your home. These tips are a good place to begin:

• Consider the filters. If your filters are disposable, change them at least monthly during the winter. If you have permanent filters, wash them according to manufacturer's directions.
• Clean the heat exchanger surfaces. With a hand brush, gently clean the heat exchanger surfaces in your furnace. Then vacuum the area to remove any debris you might have loosened with the brush.
• Clean the blower blades. Use a toothbrush or a soft rag to get to all the parts of the blower blades, and then use your vacuum again to remove debris.
• Examine the ductwork. If you have a forced-air duct system, look at the ductwork. If you feel air blowing through the seams anywhere along the line, seal it well with duct tape and make a note to talk to a professional about the problem.
• Smell for gas. If you smell gas anywhere around your furnace at any time, leave the house immediately and call your gas utility company.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors. Place carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate areas, and make certain your smoke alarms are in good working order.
• Have it inspected. A professional inspection of your furnace once a year can help you catch small problems before they become major home safety hazards.

Don't let your furnace put your family at risk! Get all the cozy heat and none of the worry by keeping up regular maintenance on your furnace.