Fresh Air Intake System Maintenance Tips

Fresh air intake systems play a critical role in maintaining healthy indoor air quality. They ensure that furnaces work efficiently and keep pollutants out of the home.

However, intake vents are often obstructed by dirty debris and improper maintenance. Learn how to prevent these problems and protect your fresh air intake system.

1. Clean the Intake Grilles

The fresh air intake allows outside air to enter the home and replace stale, polluted indoor air. This influx of fresh air helps to dilute indoor pollutants, odors and moisture, thereby improving indoor air quality and creating a more comfortable and healthy living environment.

However, the fresh air intake is not immune to certain problems, such as blockages, pollution infiltration and maintenance neglect. Addressing these issues can help ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

To clean the intake grilles, turn off your furnace and unscrew the vent cover. If there is no brush attachment, use a damp sponge or Magic Eraser to wipe away the dust and dirt. If your vacuum has a brush attachment, place it over the grille and run the brush lines slowly to remove any remaining dust or dirt. Be sure to rinse the grille with warm, soapy water before reinstalling it. Also, be sure to position the intake properly based on prevailing winds and to protect it from direct weather exposure.

2. Replace the Air Filter

When it comes to home air quality, the fresh air intake system plays a critical role in removing unwanted contaminants. For homeowners, the best way to ensure that this vital component is working properly is by regularly cleaning or replacing the air filter.

Before changing the filter, it’s a good idea to remove dust from the vent cover by vacuuming or wiping down with a damp cloth. In addition, it’s a good idea to write the date of installation on the filter so that you can easily remember when it’s time to replace it.

Once the old filter is removed, it’s important to check the new filter for proper size. Most filters have a label with a release gauge to help homeowners find the correct size. Once the new filter is in place, be sure to follow the arrows on the filter that indicate the direction of air flow. This will ensure that the new filter is not restricting airflow and keeping contaminated air from being drawn into the home.

3. Clean the Intake Screen

The intake screen blocks out leaves, lint, insects and other debris that could enter the vent and pipe. It should be inspected regularly and cleaned or replaced when needed. This is especially important during and after a snowstorm. Make sure that snow hasn’t built up around the outside of the vent and that the pipe isn’t clogged with ice.

The engine requires a supply of fresh air to operate properly. The fresh air must be as cool as possible to provide the most efficient fuel burn and power. Cool air is more dense than hot air, so it can deliver more oxygen per unit volume.

Fouling caused by airborne debris restricts the movement of air, causing the plant to use more energy than necessary and increases the risk of breakdown. Camfil’s long-lasting, weather-resistant and easy-to-clean external intake screens stop dirt, leaves, insects, pollen and litter from entering and clogging coils and internal components. They can be easily cleaned in minutes with a brush, vacuum or garden hose.

4. Clean the Intake Pipe

The fresh air intake vent allows clean outside air to pass into your furnace and other heating and cooling appliances. This air carries contaminants and pollutants away from combustion, helping to improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of respiratory conditions for family members.

Keeping the intake vent clear of organic debris, pests, and snow can prevent blockage and ensure proper functioning. This is especially important during winter and after a snowstorm, when it’s easy for debris to accumulate.

Neglecting to clean the fresh air intake can result in clogged filters, poor performance, and shortened appliance life. It’s also important to keep the intake vent positioned properly to avoid obstructions and exposure to weather elements. This includes positioning it to capture airflow efficiently, taking into account the layout and design of your home, as well as prevailing winds. Proper placement also makes the vent more easily accessible for regular maintenance and cleaning. This helps to minimize the need for manual cleaning or repairs.