Summer Maintenance For Your Propane Systems

Many homes are heated throughout the cold winter months by appliances fueled by propane. If you rely on propane to power appliances in your home, then you understand the important role routine maintenance plays in ensuring the safety and functionality of these appliances. Summer is the perfect time to complete maintenance tasks since the services of your propane appliances are in-demand during the winter.

Here are three summer maintenance tasks for your propane systems that shouldn't be overlooked.

1. Clean your propane furnace.

Heavy use during the winter can leave your propane furnace looking a little drab. Before you shut down your furnace for the summer, it's important that you take the time to complete a thorough cleaning of your appliance.

Dirt and debris that builds up along the interior of your furnace can jeopardize the efficiency of your furnace, and these contaminants could pose a fire risk as well. Remove the outer panel from your furnace, use a vacuum to clean up any loose dirt or debris, then wipe down the interior with a soft cloth to prepare your furnace to be ready to fire when winter rolls around again.

2. Check for leaks.

Propane is a highly flammable gas that can cause serious damage when mishandled. It's important that you are taking the time each summer to check your propane systems for any possible leaks.

Manufacturers incorporate an additive into residential propane stores that makes the gas smell like rotten eggs, but a small leak might not produce an immediately noticeable odor. Carefully inspect your propane tank, gas lines, and appliances for visible damage, and listen for hissing sounds that could indicate a leak.

3. Give your appliances a tune-up.

Having your propane appliances checked by a professional at the beginning of summer will ensure that you will always have access to functional appliances.

By checking for signs of damage on a regular basis, the technician will be able to identify any potential problems while they are still relatively minor. Having minor repairs made immediately following an inspection will save you money when it comes to maintaining your propane systems in the future.

Caring for your home's propane systems is essential to your comfort and well-being. Be sure that you are cleaning out your furnace, checking for leaks, and having a technician tune-up your propane appliances at the beginning of each summer to keep your propane systems working properly. To learn more, contact a company like Sunrise Cooperative Inc.