👋 Hello, I’m Samantha Reyes
Hi there! I’m Samantha Reyes, your reliable home comfort advisor. If you’re a proud owner of a Goodman gas furnace—like the GR9T801205DN—you’ve already made a smart move for your home’s comfort and heating performance.
But here’s the thing:
“Even the best furnace needs regular care to stay efficient, quiet, and long-lasting.”
Skipping maintenance can cost you big—through higher energy bills, unexpected repairs, and even early breakdowns. The good news? Most furnace maintenance is simple and can be done by you or your HVAC technician.
This comprehensive checklist walks you through:
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What you can do yourself
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What a pro should handle
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When to do each task
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Red flags to watch out for
Let’s keep your Goodman furnace purring like a kitten all winter long!
🔄 Why Furnace Maintenance Matters
Your furnace is a hardworking machine. Over time, dust, wear, condensation, and loose wires can all reduce efficiency or cause breakdowns.
Regular maintenance provides key benefits:
✔️ Lower energy bills
✔️ Improved airflow and comfort
✔️ Quieter operation
✔️ Extended equipment life
✔️ Better indoor air quality
✔️ Valid warranty protection
External Link: Energy.gov confirms that “proper maintenance is essential for safe and efficient furnace operation.”
🧹 Monthly & Seasonal DIY Tasks
These are simple, low-risk tasks you can perform yourself throughout the heating season.
✅ 1. Replace or Clean Air Filters
When: Every 1–3 months
Why: Dirty filters restrict airflow and make your furnace work harder.
How:
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Locate the filter slot (typically near the blower or return duct)
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Slide out the filter
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Replace with a new one of the same size and MERV rating (typically MERV 8–11)
🧠 Samantha’s Tip: Mark filter replacement dates on your calendar or set a phone reminder!
✅ 2. Check Thermostat Settings
When: Monthly
Why: Incorrect settings can cause the furnace to run unnecessarily.
What to do:
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Confirm it’s set to “Heat” mode
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Test temperature responsiveness
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Use a smart or programmable thermostat for better scheduling
✅ 3. Inspect Furnace Area for Obstructions
When: Monthly
Why: Items stored near the furnace can block airflow or become fire hazards.
Checklist:
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Keep at least 24 inches of clearance on all sides
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Avoid stacking boxes, paint cans, or laundry nearby
✅ 4. Listen for Unusual Noises
When: As needed
Why: Banging, screeching, or rattling may signal blower issues, loose panels, or failing motors.
👂 If something sounds off, call a professional before the issue escalates.
🛠️ Biannual Tasks for Homeowners
These can be done in fall and again in spring, either by you or a technician depending on your skill level.
✅ 5. Check Exhaust and Intake Vents
When: Fall and spring
Why: Outdoor PVC or metal flue pipes can become blocked with leaves, snow, or animal nests.
Steps:
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Locate exterior intake/exhaust pipes
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Ensure clear airflow
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Remove visible obstructions
🚨 Blocked vents can lead to carbon monoxide buildup, so this task is critical.
✅ 6. Vacuum Registers and Return Grilles
When: Biannually
Why: Dust and pet hair reduce system airflow.
How:
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Use a brush attachment to vacuum supply and return registers
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Remove grilles if necessary and clean thoroughly
✅ 7. Check Furnace Flame Color
When: At season start
Why: A steady blue flame means safe, efficient combustion.
What to watch for:
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Yellow or flickering flames indicate a combustion problem
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If you see orange, yellow, or soot buildup—call an HVAC pro immediately
External Link: Learn more about safe furnace flame color at This Old House
🧑🔧 Annual Professional Maintenance Checklist
Even the best DIYers should schedule a professional furnace tune-up once a year. It usually takes 60–90 minutes and costs between $100–$150.
Here’s what a licensed HVAC tech should perform:
✅ 8. Test and Clean Burners
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Remove soot buildup
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Verify proper gas ignition
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Ensure flame sensor is clean and responsive
✅ 9. Inspect Heat Exchanger for Cracks
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Prevents dangerous carbon monoxide leaks
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Required for most warranty claims
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Usually done with a borescope or visual inspection
✅ 10. Lubricate Moving Parts
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Includes blower motor (if non-ECM), fans, and bearings
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Reduces friction and wear
✅ 11. Check Electrical Connections and Voltage
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Loose wires can cause short cycling or error codes
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Voltage tests ensure the control board and igniter receive proper power
✅ 12. Check and Adjust Gas Pressure
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Ensures fuel is burning efficiently at both low and high stage
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Required for two-stage furnaces like the GR9T801205DN
External Link: The HVAC School explains how techs set gas pressure during tune-ups.
✅ 13. Test Carbon Monoxide Levels
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Safety first!
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Includes both air supply and return
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Some techs will also check your CO detectors
🧾 Record Your Maintenance History
Keep a log of:
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Filter changes
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Technician visits
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Parts replaced
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Warranties registered
This helps if you need warranty service or decide to sell your home.
🧯 Safety Reminders
✅ Install carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and furnace
✅ Keep an ABC fire extinguisher nearby
✅ Don’t block combustion air vents in enclosed furnace closets
✅ Keep children and pets away from open panels
External Link: See more tips from NFPA’s Furnace Safety Guide
🛑 Signs You May Need Immediate Furnace Service
Call an HVAC pro if you notice:
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No heat or frequent short cycling
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Burning smells or gas odor
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Water pooling under the unit (condensate issue)
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Thermostat doesn’t respond
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Unexplained energy bill spikes
🛠️ Tools You Might Want on Hand
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Replacement air filters (check size: e.g., 20"x25"x1")
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Wet/dry vacuum for vent cleaning
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Screwdriver for panel access
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Smartphone for documenting issues or serial numbers
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Flashlight for inspecting compartments
📝 Downloadable Maintenance Calendar (Optional)
Want this checklist as a PDF you can print and hang near your furnace? Let me know, and I’ll build one for you!
✅ Final Thoughts from Samantha
Maintaining your Goodman gas furnace—especially a high-performing unit like the GR9T801205DN—doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A little attention each month, plus one professional tune-up per year, goes a long way toward:
✔️ Preventing costly repairs
✔️ Extending furnace lifespan
✔️ Keeping your family safe
✔️ Staying warm and efficient all winter long
📞 Need Help?
If you’d like a certified pro in your area to do a fall or spring checkup—or if you're not sure what size filter or tool you need—send me a quick message. I’ll help you make sense of it all.
— Samantha Reyes, Home Comfort Advisor
In the next topic we will read about: What Does 80% AFUE Mean? A Simple Guide for Homeowners - By Samantha Reyes, Home Comfort Advisor
