Every homeowner would like their furnace in top-notch condition. Simple maintenance can get you there and pay dividends in your comfort, efficiency, and safety. But as you know, keeping the furnace running efficiently and preventing the hassles of breakdowns isn’t always on the top of our minds. Being a homeowner, you must know that furnace maintenance is a preventive service that involves an inspection and tune-up of your system.
Let us face it!
Most of us only call for HVAC service in an emergency or if something goes wrong. The winter months are tough enough. You do not need your furnace to fail in the middle of the night or just not put out enough heat.
Many homeowners opt to hire a trusted HVAC company to prepare their furnaces for the winter months, while others take the DIY approach. At Rod’s Cooling & Heating, we recommend an annual service check by a professional to make sure your system is ready for peak performance. However, suppose you are planning to take some maintenance steps yourself. In that case, the following checklist will help you successfully prepare your furnace for the winter season.
Reduce Heat Loss & Lower the Bills
- Set the thermostat back 7o – 10o F for eight hours to save money
- Properly calibrate the thermostat
- Replace the older furnace with a high-efficiency furnace
- Inspect, clean, and adjust the burners of the furnace for efficiency
- Reverse the ceiling fans and cut the heating costs
- Inspect and boost the insulation
- Check and seal the ducts
- Allow sunlight to enter the home
- Seal air leaks
Improve Indoor Air Quality
- Change the furnace filter to keep away from trouble
- Keep the area around the furnace and all areas free of dust
Maintenance, Inspection & Action
- Maintain performance record
- Test the detectors every six months
- Listen for unusual sounds or pay attention to strange odors
- Check the electric ignition or pilot light
- Turn off kitchen, bath, and other exhaust fans
- Test safety features
- Clean the flue and chimney
- Inspect and lubricate all moving components
- Inspect the electrical connections and systems
- Make an appointment early in the season
Now that you know how to keep your furnace in the best possible condition, it is time to explore some of the critical questions you might have on your mind.
Do you need to service the furnace every year?
An annual checkup and a clean, well-adjusted heating system will save you money and extend the furnace’s life. Furnace manufacturers recommend yearly inspections and maintenance by a technician. The experienced HVAC contractors suggest you can get by another year if the furnace is under ten years old. But any older, have them serviced every year.
What happens if you do not service the furnace every year?
Specialists say calls regarding No-heat from the furnace in the winter are related to a lack of maintenance. Left un-serviced, a furnace can stop working unexpectedly, leaving your family in the cold. The minor issues can become more extensive and expensive if you let them go over time.
Lower energy costs, longer lifespan, fewer repairs, improved indoor air quality, and peace of mind are some of the key advantages of fall furnace maintenance.
What happens if you do not change the furnace filter?
When getting the most out of your furnace and maintaining the utilities, checking and changing the air filter is very important. You must change the air filter regularly, at least every three months or more. A clogged air filter will restrict airflow, allowing pollen, dust, and other contaminants to affect the indoor air quality.
Changing the furnace filter will extend the furnace’s life, reduce energy bills, improve indoor air quality, prevent overheating or short cycling, and regulate temperature.
When should you get a furnace tune-up?
Typically, furnace checks and maintenance are performed before winter. The fall season is a good time to ensure everything runs safely and efficiently. You do not want to find out in the middle of a cold winter night.
How much does it cost to have the furnace cleaned?
It depends on the services you are having done and the type of furnace you have. In addition, it even depends on where you live.
How long does a gas furnace last?
A well-maintained furnace will last you at least fifteen to twenty years. Completing annual maintenance and being diligent with repairs can extend its life even longer. Furnaces, these days, can efficiently operate for twenty to thirty years. However, the average life expectancy is sixteen to twenty years.
What indications do the furnace need to be cleaned or even replaced?
Uneven temperatures, new or increased noises, and an increase in the energy bills are some key indications that the furnace needs to be cleaned or even replaced.
What is carried out during a furnace tune-up?
A detailed furnace tune-up inspection includes the following:
- Clean and check gas burners
- Check pilot assembly
- Check and clean thermocouple or flame sensor
- Combustion analysis
- Check carbon monoxide levels
- Check oxygen levels
- Check and measure for proper venting and draft on the chimney
- Check blower motor, clean vents, and cooling ports
- Check blower motor amp draw for proper operation
- Check thermostat
- Confirm the overall safe operation and give the homeowner a written report
- Check electrical wiring and all connections
- Check safety controls for proper operation
- Inspect PVC vent pipes, if applicable
If you are looking for a professional and reliable HVAC service provider to ensure your furnace is in top-notch condition, feel free to get in touch with Rod’s Cooling & Heating LLC. We are just a phone call away – 316 776 4088!
