A furnace is a heating system that can be found in the home which works efficiently and affordability to heat the home. Home owners need to be sure to take care of their furnace system so the unit can continue to work dependably. One way to make sure a unit will continue to last for many years to come is to clean the furnace regularly. Below is a step by step guide to cleaning a furnace system. Follow the guide to keep your unit in proper working order.
Tools You Will Need
- Vacuum
- Screwdriver
- Scrub brush/old toothbrush
- Cotton swabs
- Preparing the unit
To get your unit ready for cleaning, the power will need to be shut off. The breaker switch can be shut off so the unit can be safe to clean. For complete safety reasons, the breaker needs to be turned off as well as the pilot light. Make sure both are off for maximum safety.
Vacuuming
Now you are ready to vacuum. Take the attachment and vacuum the interior of the unit. Be careful of wiring inside the unit as you vacuum. You can also use an old toothbrush or a small scrub brush to remove any dust or dirt that has built up inside the unit. Be sure to vacuum again to remove any loosen dirt or particles.
Cleaning
Now you can clean the blower assembly. Use the toothbrush again as well as the cotton swabs. Use the soft bristles and small swabs to remove any dirt or build-up from the surface of the assembly. Be aware and careful around the blower fins of the unit.
You will also need to clean the vents. Take the furnace filters out of the unit and replace the filters if they are in need of replacement. If you have a permanent filter, you can use your vacuum to remove build-up such as dust and dirt.
Putting It Back Together
Now you are ready to put the furnace back together. Replace the filters and safety covers you may have removed. Make sure all connections are still in place and are in good condition. Finally replace the front panel and get the unit ready for heating.
Now turn the power back on and run the unit for a few minutes to be able to see that the unit is working well. If you smell any burning or unusual smells, shut the furnace off and call a heating professional. Take the time to care for your unit and seek help when needed so that your unit can continue to provide you with a comfortable environment. Cleaning your unit is a great way for the furnace to work well and provide the comfort that you need.
Install a Smart Thermostat for Better Furnace Control
If you haven’t paired your furnace with a smart thermostat yet, now’s the time. In 2025, these devices are more advanced than ever and make a noticeable difference in energy efficiency and comfort. They learn your heating habits, adjust based on real-time weather, and help reduce wear and tear on your furnace by minimizing unnecessary cycling. According to recent data from ENERGY STAR, smart thermostats can cut heating bills by up to 12% annually—that’s real savings for something you install once and forget about.
Schedule an Annual Professional Furnace Inspection
Yes, cleaning your furnace is essential—but don’t skip the yearly professional inspection. A trained HVAC technician will go beyond the surface, checking for things you can’t see—like cracked heat exchangers, loose electrical components, or early signs of carbon monoxide leaks. Even a well-maintained furnace can have hidden issues, especially after a harsh winter. Most inspections cost under $150 and can prevent thousands in future repairs or safety risks. Think of it as a health check-up for your home’s heating system.
Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Furnace Filter
Not all filters are created equal. While 1-inch pleated filters are the norm, high-efficiency filters with MERV ratings of 8–13 trap smaller particles like pollen, bacteria, and even smoke. This improves indoor air quality while reducing strain on your blower motor. Just make sure your system can handle the higher airflow resistance—your HVAC professional can help with that. In homes with allergies or pets, this upgrade makes a noticeable difference in both comfort and long-term furnace performance.