Numerous factors interfere with heating system functionality and efficiency, such as air leaks throughout the home and worn parts that need replacing. Dust and dirt also have a detrimental effect on furnace function and target several parts specifically. As winter ends and it becomes time to prepare your furnace for the offseason, learn what parts accumulate dirt to help you schedule a timely cleaning and inspection.

5 Furnace Components That Are Susceptible to Dust & Dirt

1. Safety Devices

Too much dirt and grime on furnace safety devices, such as the limit switch, mercury flame sensor, carbon monoxide detector, and air pressure switch, can “confuse” them. Your system may stay on when it’s leaking carbon monoxide to put you and your household members at risk, or turn off when it should be keeping your home warm. Other potential issues include tiny explosions during the ignition process because the air pressure switch is bogged down with dirt.

2. Burners

As dirt accumulates on the furnace burners, they stop burning evenly. Dirt also affects flame height, causing your system to work overtime to produce sufficient heat.

More seriously, incomplete burning due to serious debris buildup can increase the amount of dangerous carbon monoxide the system creates. A dirty ignition may affect the burners as well because there isn’t enough heat for their operation.

3. Filter

It’s your air filter’s job to get dirty because it traps dust, pollen, animal dander, and other pollutants that impede airflow and decrease heating system efficiency. A clogged filter allows contaminants to build up inside the unit, including the heat exchanger. Excessive dust and dirt can cause the component to crack, which allows poisonous carbon monoxide to escape and create dangerous conditions.

For the best results, replace your filter once per season—or every four to six weeks if you have longhaired pets or family members with allergies or respiratory issues.

4. Motor

Without routine cleaning, your furnace’s motor accumulates grime that increases friction among its moving parts, which wears them out prematurely in addition to causing efficiency issues. Too much debris can eventually cause the motor to break down.

5. Coils

Dirty compressor coils can’t transfer heat into your home effectively, resulting in comfort issues and higher energy bills. Severe dirt buildup on coils traps hot air within the system, causing it to overheat and shut off, assuming there are temperature failsafe mechanisms in place. 

Avoid these and other heating system issues by scheduling an end-of-season inspection and cleaning with Robert L. Shealy Heating & Air Conditioning. Serving West Columbia, SC—including all of Lexington and Richland counties—for over 50 years, the HVAC contractor provides a wide range of heating and air services, including furnace repairs and AC installations. Call (803) 796-1923 today to make an appointment or visit the HVAC contractor online for heating service details.