JANUARY 7, 2005 -.  When was the last time you changed your heating and cooling system filters or tested your carbon monoxide detector? If it's been a while, the State Fire Marshal advises you to take a look.

Chances are the filters are coated with dirt and lint, making it very tough for air to get through – or worse, you may have a non-working carbon monoxide detector.

Dirty filters cause heating and cooling systems to consume a lot more electricity, which can add significantly to your power bill.

“If you're not changing your heating and cooling system filter regularly, your dollars are literally vanishing into thin air,” said State Fire Marshal Andy Neumann. “A standard filter costs about a dollar, a dirty system will cost you a lot more.”

Neumann said homeowners should test their carbon monoxide detector every time they change their furnace filter. He added, “If you don’t already have one, make it a priority to get one since a carbon monoxide detector can mean the difference between life or death if there are any leaks from the furnace.”

No matter what the age of your furnace, you can improve energy efficiency by keeping it in good working order. A few simple furnace maintenance tasks will ensure you’re getting the most for your energy dollar.

Change or clean your furnace filter

Failing to check the filter regularly can be costly: dust and dirt can work their way into the blower and coil assemblies, reducing the furnace's operating efficiency and eventually damaging the motor.

In fact, heating technicians say more than half their service calls are caused by simple dust and dirt clogging up vital motor parts. Most dealers recommend changing disposable filters once a month, or cleaning reusable filters every other month.

Clear outdoor exhaust vents

During the winter, be sure to clear snow and ice away from the intake and exhaust vents outdoors. If the vents become blocked, dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can back up into the house, and the furnace could shut down.

Schedule an annual tune-up

An annual checkup by a licensed mechanical contractor is also a good idea - especially if you have a natural gas system. The technician should check the flues and temperature settings, examine the heat exchanger for cracks, and check the safety mechanisms. A $50-$100 annual tune-up can reduce your heating costs by five percent – and it’s the best prevention against deadly carbon monoxide poisoning. Be sure to ask what is included in the tune-up.

More do-it-yourself maintenance

Other easy ways to keep your furnace running efficient include:

·         Check the owner's manual to see if the blower motor should be lubricated. If you have an older heating unit, you might need to add a drop or two to each oil port.

·         Replace frayed belts.

·         Check flues or vents for cracks or blockages.

·         Check the condensate drain to make sure it is properly attached and flowing freely.

·         Remember to read your owner's manual carefully before doing any maintenance work, and always shut off power at the service panel first.