Routine maintenance is essential for keeping your wood furnace efficient, safe, and reliable. Proper upkeep can prevent costly repairs, improve heating performance, and ensure your furnace lasts for years to come. In this guide, we’ll share 10 maintenance tips to help you take the best care of your wood furnace.
Maintenance Tips
1. Clean the Firebox Weekly
- Ash buildup can obstruct airflow and reduce efficiency.
- Remove ash when it reaches more than 1 inch deep, and clean the firebox with a metal shovel and ash vacuum. We recommend that you keep about 1 inch of ash in the firebox at all times, this will act as insulation and help your furnace burn longer.
2. Inspect and Replace Gaskets
- Door and glass gaskets ensure an airtight seal, essential for combustion.
- Check for cracks or fraying.
- A great way to check the integrity of the gasket it to close a dollar bill in the door. If you can pull the dollar out you need to replace the gasket.
- Replace damaged gaskets with the correct diameter rope and seal using high-temperature gasket cement.
3. Clean the Flue Annually
- Creosote buildup in the flue can cause dangerous blockages and fire risks.
- Use a chimney brush to remove creosote in the flue, and schedule professional cleanings for heavy buildup.
4. Lubricate Blower Motors
- Most new blowers have sealed bearings However, if your blower motor has lubrication ports, add synthetic bearing oil every 6 months.
- Over time, lack of lubrication can lead to squeaking or motor failure.
5. Use Only Seasoned Wood
- Burning wet or green wood produces more creosote and reduces heat output.
- Use wood that has been dried for at least 6-12 months for optimal performance.
- Not sure if your wood is dry? Grab a moisture meter.
6. Check Heat Exchanger and Grates for Cracks
- Cracks in the heat exchanger can cause efficiency loss and release harmful gases.
- Inspect regularly and replace if cracks are found.
- Cracks in your grate can allow wood or coal to fall through and reduce your furnace’s BTUs or efficiency.
7. Inspect Wiring and Connections
- Loose or frayed wires can disrupt power to key components like blowers and controls.
- Tighten connections and replace any damaged wiring.
8. Replace Filters (If Applicable)
- Some wood or coal furnace models include air filters that need periodic cleaning or replacement. This feature is more common on pellet furnaces.
- Check your user manual for guidance and inspect filters monthly.
9. Tighten Door Hinges
- Loose doors can cause heat loss and reduce furnace efficiency.
- Tighten hinges or replace door hardware as needed.
10. Schedule Annual Inspections
- Even with regular maintenance, a professional inspection can catch hidden issues.
- Schedule an inspection annually to ensure everything is functioning properly.