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Seasonal Furnace Maintenance

By Bob Formisano, About.com

5 of 7

Check the Fanbelt


Just as on your car, fanbelts wear and get loose. Check the fanbelt on your furnace that drives the blower. Inspect the belt for glazing, cracking or fraying. If any of those signs are evident, replace the belt. Also check the belt tension. By pushing down in the center of the belt, it should feel taut and only deflect about 1/2" - 3/4". If it deflects more than that, tighten the belt by loosening the attachment bracket. Then, move the motor assembly so the belt tightens and hold the motor assembly in place while maintaining tension on the belt. Tighten the attachment bracket.

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