🏠 Introduction: Tony’s Take on Furnace Care
When I installed my Goodman 80 AFUE, 60,000 BTU Ultra-Low NOx furnace, I knew I wasn’t just buying equipment—I was making a long-term investment in my home’s comfort.
But here’s the catch: even the best furnace won’t run at peak efficiency or last its full 15–20 years without regular maintenance.
Over the years, I’ve developed a seasonal maintenance routine that keeps my Goodman humming along. It’s not complicated, but it makes all the difference:
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Lower utility bills
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Fewer repair calls
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Consistent comfort all winter long
Let me walk you through exactly how I keep my Goodman furnace running smooth.
🧹 Step 1: Replace or Clean Filters Regularly
📌 Why It Matters
A dirty filter is like breathing through a clogged mask. It chokes airflow, forces the blower motor to work harder, and increases energy use. According to Energy Star, replacing filters regularly can cut your energy use by up to 15%.
📅 How Often
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Replace disposable filters every 1–3 months.
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Wash reusable filters at least once per season.
🔧 Tony’s Tip
I set a phone reminder for the first of every month in winter. Checking the filter takes less than 2 minutes, and I’ve avoided multiple service calls just by keeping it clean.
🔧 Step 2: Inspect and Clean the Blower
📌 Why It Matters
The blower motor and fan push heated air through the ducts. Dust buildup on the fan blades can reduce airflow and efficiency, while neglecting lubrication can shorten the motor’s lifespan.
🛠️ What I Do
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Once a year, I remove the blower panel and gently vacuum around the compartment.
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I check for dust buildup, loose wiring, or signs of wear.
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Some motors require oiling, but most modern Goodman models use sealed bearings—check your manual.
👉 If the blower looks excessively dirty or noisy, I call a pro for a deeper clean.
🔥 Step 3: Check the Burner Flames
📌 Why It Matters
The burners should produce a steady blue flame.
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Blue flame: Proper combustion
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Yellow/orange flame: Incomplete combustion or dirty burners
A misaligned or dirty burner can waste fuel and even produce dangerous carbon monoxide.
🛠️ What I Do
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Once a year, I visually inspect the flame through the burner sight glass.
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If I see yellow flames or flickering, I call a professional to adjust the gas mixture.
👉 Don’t try to adjust burners yourself unless you’re certified—gas safety isn’t DIY territory.
🌬️ Step 4: Clear Vents and Ducts
📌 Why It Matters
Even with a strong blower, blocked vents reduce airflow, making the system less efficient. The DOE notes that leaky ducts alone can waste 20–30% of heated air before it even reaches your rooms.
🛠️ What I Do
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I make sure all supply and return vents are open and free from furniture, rugs, or curtains.
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Every couple of years, I have the ducts inspected for leaks.
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I use mastic or foil tape (never duct tape) to seal small leaks myself.
👉 This simple step not only saves energy but also keeps rooms evenly heated.
🧯 Step 5: Test Safety Systems
📌 Why It Matters
Gas furnaces are safe when maintained, but safety checks are non-negotiable.
🛠️ My Checklist
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Carbon monoxide detectors: I test them monthly and replace batteries every fall.
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Thermostat calibration: I use a separate thermometer to confirm accuracy.
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Furnace safety switch: I make sure the blower door safety switch works—if the panel’s removed, the furnace shouldn’t run.
👉 Peace of mind comes from knowing the safety systems are in place and working.
(Consumer Product Safety Commission – CO Safety)
🧼 Step 6: Schedule an Annual Professional Tune-Up
This is one area where I don’t cut corners. Even though I handle the basics, I always bring in a pro before winter.
📋 What Pros Do in a Tune-Up
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Inspect and clean the heat exchanger (critical for safety—cracks can release CO)
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Check gas pressure and adjust burners
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Inspect ignition system and flame sensor
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Tighten electrical connections
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Test the blower motor amps
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Verify venting and flue safety
📉 Cost vs. Savings
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A tune-up typically costs $100–$150.
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It helps prevent $500–$1,000 emergency breakdowns.
👉 For me, it’s a no-brainer—I schedule mine every September.
📅 Tony’s Seasonal Checklist
Here’s how I spread maintenance throughout the year:
🍂 Fall (Pre-Heating Season)
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Change filter
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Schedule pro tune-up
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Test thermostat and safety systems
❄️ Winter
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Check filter monthly
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Keep vents clear
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Listen for unusual noises
🌸 Spring
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Clean blower compartment
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Inspect ducts for leaks
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Shut furnace down properly
☀️ Summer
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Seal ducts and insulate as needed
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Prep system for fall startup
👉 By breaking it down seasonally, I never feel overwhelmed.
🧠 Myths About Furnace Maintenance
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Myth 1: You only need to change the filter once a year.
False—filters clog fast, especially with pets or allergies. -
Myth 2: Professional tune-ups are a waste of money.
Not true—tune-ups extend furnace life and improve efficiency. -
Myth 3: If the furnace is running fine, you don’t need maintenance.
Wrong—small issues build into expensive breakdowns if ignored.
(Energy.gov – Furnace & Boiler Tips)
📊 Real-World Example: Tony’s Furnace Lifespan Boost
My old single-speed furnace (with poor maintenance) lasted just 12 years before the heat exchanger cracked.
Now, with my Goodman and a strict maintenance routine:
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Bills are 15% lower
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Furnace runs quieter
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I expect 15–20+ years of reliable service
👉 Regular care makes the difference between replacing your furnace in a decade or enjoying it for two.
✅ Conclusion: Why Maintenance Matters
For me, Tony, keeping my Goodman furnace running smooth comes down to consistency:
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Simple monthly filter checks
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Annual pro tune-ups
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Seasonal inspections of ducts and safety systems
These steps cost me very little, but they give me:
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Lower heating bills
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Improved comfort
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A furnace lifespan of 15–20 years
👉 My advice: Don’t wait until something breaks. Stick to a maintenance routine, and your furnace will reward you with comfort, safety, and savings.
In the next topic we will know more about: Gas vs. Electric Furnaces: Which One Is Right for Your Home?
