How To Clean Wall Heaters: The Expert Guide to Wall Heater Cleaning
Learn how to clean wall heaters properly. We recommend cleaning it at least twice a year. If you live in an area with lots of dust or have pets, you might need to clean it more often for the best results.
What tools are required?
Cleaning your electric wall heater is important to ensure its efficiency and longevity. To make the process easier and safer, gather the following tools and materials:
- Safety Glasses: Begin by protecting your eyes with safety glasses to prevent debris or dust from getting into your eyes during cleaning.
- Dust Mask: Safeguard your respiratory health with a dust mask. This will filter out any airborne particles and dust, ensuring you breathe clean air while cleaning your heater.
- Drop Cloth: Lay down a drop cloth or protective covering to shield your floor or workspace from dirt, dust, and any potential spills during cleaning.
- Voltage Detector: Before you start cleaning, use a voltage detector to ensure there’s no electrical current running through your heater. Safety first!
- Phillips and Flathead Screwdrivers: You’ll need both Phillips and flathead screwdrivers for opening and securing different parts of your electric wall heater.
- Small Container: A small container or receptacle will come in handy for organizing and storing small screws and parts that you may need to remove during cleaning.
- Bucket of Soapy Water and Washcloth: Prepare a bucket filled with soapy water and have a washcloth ready. You can use this to clean the exterior of your heater and remove any dirt or grime.
- Air Compressor or Vacuum with Blower Option: To thoroughly clean the interior components of your electric wall heater, consider using an air compressor or a vacuum cleaner equipped with a blower function. This will help remove dust and debris from hard-to-reach areas.
By gathering these tools and materials, you’ll be well-prepared to clean your electric wall heater effectively, ensuring it operates efficiently and safely. Regular maintenance like this can extend the life of your heater and keep your living space comfortable.
How to Clean Wall Heaters Safely
Electric wall heaters are essential for keeping our homes warm but need regular cleaning to work effectively and safely. Follow these simple steps to clean your electric wall heater:
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
Safety always comes first. Switch off the circuits supplying power to your heaters. Double-check with a voltage detector to ensure there’s no electricity running to your heater.
Step 2: Carefully Remove the Grill
If your heater has a thermostat, take your time when removing the thermostat knob. Gently use a flathead screwdriver. Rushing this step can damage the thermostat. Many force the knob off or remove the grill first, leading to potential thermostat replacement or heater replacement.
Step 3: Clear Out Dust and Debris
A regular hair dryer will do if you don’t have an air compressor or a blower-equipped vacuum. Avoid canned air; it can be flammable. Make sure the fan blades don’t spin while blowing out the dust to protect the motor.
Step 4: Thoroughly Clean the Grill
Place the grill in a bucket of soapy water as soon as you remove it. Let it soak while you clean the inside of the heater.
Step 5: Reattach the Grill Securely
Make sure the grill is completely dry before reinstalling it. Moisture inside the heater can cause damage or safety issues. When replacing screws, tighten them just snugly to avoid grill damage.
Step 6: Restore Power and Test
Turn the breaker back on and adjust the thermostat to activate the heater. Let it run for a few minutes to ensure it warms up correctly and operates smoothly. Set it to your preferred temperature.
Regular cleaning maintains your heater’s efficiency and durability. It ensures your electric wall heater keeps you warm and safe.
How to Clean Your Gas Wall Heater: Simple Steps
Gas wall heaters keep us warm, but they need a little cleaning to work their best. Follow these easy steps:
Safety First
- Turn off the gas supply.
- Wait for the heater to cool down.
- Keep the room ventilated by opening windows and doors.
You’ll Need
- Screwdriver
- A soft brush or vacuum cleaner
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Mild detergent
- Bucket of warm, soapy water
- Towels
- Safety goggles and gloves
Cleaning Steps
1. Turn Off Gas Supply:
- Find the gas supply valve and switch it off for safety.
2. Remove the Cover or Grille:
- Use a screwdriver to take off the heater’s cover or grille. Keep the screws safe.
3. Clean the Exterior:
- Brush or vacuum away dust and debris from the outside, especially vents and grilles.
4. Clean the Interior:
- Gently vacuum inside to remove loose dirt or dust. Be careful with the parts.
5. Clean the Grille or Cover:
- If it’s dirty, wipe it with a damp cloth or sponge and soapy water. Dry it well before putting it back.
6. Inspect Burner and Pilot Light:
- Check for dirt or corrosion. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean them, but don’t touch them if unsure.
7. Check Vent Pipe (if applicable):
- Make sure it’s not blocked. Remove any debris or dust.
8. Clean the Blower Motor (if applicable):
- Clean the blades with a soft brush or vacuum if your heater has one. This helps airflow.
9. Reassemble and Turn the Gas Back On:
- Carefully put the cover or grille back with the screws. Then, turn the gas supply back on.
10. Test the Heater: – Switch it on and let it run for a few minutes. Listen and smell for anything unusual. If you’re concerned, turn it off and get help.
11. Regular Maintenance: – Do this cleaning at least once a year or as the manual says. Also, consider having a pro check it for safety and efficiency.
By following these simple steps and putting safety first, you can keep your gas wall heater working well, making your home cosy and warm.
If you’re not sure about any step or have problems, get a pro to help for safety.
How to Find the Right Wall Heater Cleaning Service Nearby
Finding a reliable wall heater cleaning service nearby is easy with these simple steps:
1. Ask for Recommendations:
- Start by asking people you know if they’ve had a good experience with local heater cleaning companies.
2. Search Online:
- Use the internet to find heater cleaning companies in your area. Look for those with good reviews.
3. Read Reviews:
- Check online review websites like Google, Yelp, or Angie’s List to see what previous customers have to say.
4. Check Licensing and Insurance:
- Make sure the company you consider is licensed and insured for your safety.
5. Request References:
- Don’t hesitate to ask the company for references from past customers.
6. Ask About Experience:
- Find out how long the company has been in business, as more experienced companies often do better work.
7. Get Price Quotes:
- Contact several companies to get quotes for your cleaning job. Be clear about what you need.
8. Compare Prices and Services:
- Don’t just go for the cheapest option. Consider the services they offer and their reputation.
9. Inquire About Guarantees:
- Check if the company offers any guarantees or warranties for their work.
10. Check for Emergency Service: – If you rely on your heater, consider a company that offers 24/7 emergency service.
11. Ask About Equipment: – Find out what equipment and techniques they use for cleaning.
12. Discuss Timeframe: – Get an idea of how long the cleaning will take.
13. Talk About Clean-Up: – Ask if they include clean-up in their service.
14. Evaluate Customer Service: – Pay attention to how responsive and helpful the company is when you contact them.
15. Get a Written Contract: – Once you choose a company, ensure you get a written contract outlining all the details.
16. Keep Records: – Maintain records of all your communications and documents related to the service.
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FAQs
Q: Is dust in the heater bad?
A: Yes, dust in heaters can be problematic. Accumulated dust and grime can overheat and damage the motors of furnaces and heat pumps, potentially leading to burnouts. It can also block proper airflow in gas-powered heaters, affecting their efficiency.
Q: How long should an electric heater last?
A: The lifespan of electric heaters can vary. Electric furnaces typically outlast gas furnaces, lasting around 20 years or more. On the other hand, gas furnaces usually have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.
Q: Do wall heaters need to be serviced?
A: Yes, wall heaters should be serviced regularly for safety. Gas heaters, in particular, should be serviced by a qualified gasfitter at least every two years to ensure they operate safely and avoid potential hazards such as fires or carbon monoxide emissions.
Q: How long can you leave a wall gas heater on?
A: It’s not recommended to leave a gas heater on overnight. While some heaters can be left on with caution, it’s generally advisable to turn them down or utilize timer options for a few hours while you sleep to ensure safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Maintaining your electric wall heater through regular cleaning is vital for both its efficiency and safety.
Cleaning it at least twice a year is recommended, with more frequent cleaning needed in dusty environments or homes with pets.
Prioritize safety by switching off power and using a voltage detector. Handle grill and thermostat knob removal with care.
Proper cleaning ensures efficient, long-lasting performance, keeping your home warm and secure year-round.
