Spring is nearly here, which means it's almost time to give your furnace a well-deserved break. But after months of nearly non-stop operation, your furnace could also use a good cleaning. A typical furnace gathers a surprising amount of dust and debris throughout its run, resulting in a heavy buildup that not only puts a drag on your furnace's performance but also spreads various allergens throughout the rest of your home.

If you're ready for a little spring cleaning, here are a few tips that can help you spring forward and keep your furnace in great shape.

Toss or Wash Your Furnace Filter

Your furnace filter is the first line of defense when it comes to preventing dust buildup. Once it's packed with blocked dust and debris, however, it's no longer effective at keeping those harmful particles at bay. When your current filter becomes dusty or visibly discolored, replace it with a clean, fresh filter. If your furnace is equipped with a reusable filter, wash it thoroughly with warm water and mild detergent and then dry it out prior to reinstallation.

Experts recommend replacing or washing your furnace filters – and any air filter within your HVAC system, for that matter – at least once every three months with light HVAC usage and once every month if you have pets, small children or anyone suffering from asthma or allergy symptoms.

Clean Your Fans

Air filters aren't the only part of your furnace that's a dust magnet. Furnace fans are also notorious for getting caked in dust and debris, especially after months of constant rotation and neglect. Carefully wipe down each and every fan blade with a damp cloth. If you encounter heavy buildup, use a toothbrush and warm, soapy water to break through the debris.

As you clean your fans, check the blades for any signs of damage or rust formation. An early checkup can help thwart major problems later on.  

Your furnace fans aren't the only fans that could use some spring cleaning. Consider extending the above treatment to your ceiling fans and bathroom exhaust fans, as well as any oscillating fans you have around the house.

Banish Dust and Debris from the Exterior

While you're worried about the inside of your furnace, don't forget about the exterior. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the furnace's exterior. Make sure to reach as many crevices as possible to eliminate dust buildup in those areas.

Tackle Dusty Vents and Registers

HVAC vents and registers are also prime breeding grounds for dust buildup. This time, you can use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to suck up dust and debris. If you don't have a vacuum handy, you can also wipe down the vents with a damp cloth. 

For more information or help with these tasks, contact local residential furnace services.