GAMA Recommends Regular Maintenance to Keep Heating Appliances Efficient, Economical and Reliable

With more than 60 million U.S. homes heated by natural gas or propane, GAMA, the national trade association representing manufacturers of appliances used in residential space heating, suggests that having gas appliances checked now will ensure their efficient, reliable and economical operation in cold weather. In fact, said GAMA President Evan R. Gaddis, GAMA recommends that homeowners have their heating systems inspected every year prior to the onset of the heating season by qualified, licensed contractors or by their local gas company.

When a furnace is operating properly, it is operating more efficiently and that means it saves consumers money and provides safe and reliable comfort during the winter. However, Mr. Gaddis points out that there are a number of steps consumers can take on their own to help their heating systems operate optimally. Consumers should make a visual check for signs of problems by inspecting the duct work and venting of their heating systems. They are advised to look for cracks or openings around the flue or duct pipes. If they find signs of rust, it may be caused by excessive condensation inside the flue that could indicate an improperly adjusted burner. In this case, the burner needs to be adjusted by an expert.

Any heating system inspection by a consumer, said Mr. Gaddis, should include oiling the blower motor and fan as well as taking a look at the blower belts for signs of wear. A qualified repairman should replace them if they are cracked or frayed. The burner chamber and pilot also need to be inspected and cleaned with a brush. When households are cleaned, GAMA advises that dust, lint, animal hair, etc. be vacuumed from all registers, vents and baseboard heaters.

While working with registers, it is good to remember that during the winter, upper floor registers can be closed and then opened in the summer to allow cool air to descend. If ceiling fans are used, be sure to MORE Maintenance Page Two reverse the cycle from summer and point the draft upward. Hot air rises and this will assist in circulating warm air throughout the home. Also, be sure to check the chimney to make sure there are no bird or squirrel nests, accumulated leaves or fallen bricks to obstruct the airflow.

Obstructions can create dangerous conditions. Consumers may want to consider installing CO monitors as well. With rising heating costs, GAMA recommended that consumers also take simple weatherization steps to save money such as caulking around windows and doorframes, and adding weather stripping to doors and windows. Doors need to fit tightly and should be kept closed in all unheated rooms. If heating equipment is old and needs to be replaced, consumers should also call a contractor who is properly licensed, Mr. Gaddis advised. If you cannot find a contractor, call your local utility or the Better Business Bureau.

New furnaces are highly efficient and will save consumers dollars—something to keep in mind as we remember the high heating costs of the winter of 2003. Our manufacturers have sizes and models for all homes.

About The Author:

Carey Larson is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-home-decor.com. Home decorating tips and ideas to showcase any room with style.

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GAMA Recommends Regular Maintenance to Keep Heating Appliances Efficient, Economical and Reliable