How to Clean a Furnace Controller Display and Filter

Furnace readouts get covered in dust and soot so you can't see the number displayed any longer. The furnace's filter gets clogged with dirt, dust and debris that causes it to work less efficiently. However, you can clean the display in order to see the readouts and clean the filter so it catches the dust and dirt before it enters your air vents. Regular cleaning of furnace displays and filters, about once a month in the operating season, is necessary to keep them running smoothly.

Things You'll Need

• Hose
• Vacuum with brush attachment
• Cloth

Instructions

1. Turn off your furnace and allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes. Open the furnace's service door and remove the filter from its housing. The filter will probably pull out or snap out.

2. Vacuum the filter with the brush attachment to remove all of the large pieces of dirt and dust.

3. Rinse off the filter with the hose until the filter runs clean.

4. Allow the filter to air dry completely and place it back into the furnace. Close the furnace's service door and turn the unit back on.

5. Wet a cloth and wipe off the furnace's display until you can see the read out again. Wipe the area around the display as well to clean it.

References

• National Furnace Heating and Air Conditioning: Furnace Safety Maintance for Homeowners