It’s time to get your furnace ready for winter—if you haven’t already. Fall is the season to consider professional maintenance even if your heating system is functioning normally. A tune up can prevent your furnace from breaking down and potentially enable it to last longer.
Without a proper tune up, your furnace:
- Is at a higher risk of failure during a cold spell.
- Will likely start to run less efficiently, wasting energy.
- May fail prematurely, so you may have to purchase a replacement sooner.
A poorly maintained furnace is likely to be more expensive to repair and you could face higher heating costs. At the very least, wear and tear will reduce efficiency. By having regular tune ups, you can keep your furnace at peak efficiency well into its operating life.
What Does a Furnace Tune Up Entail?
Whether your heating system is new or old, it should have an annual tune up. The system may last as long as 20 years if properly maintained. Otherwise, dirt, mechanical strain, heat, and other elements can take a toll.
During a tune up, a maintenance technician will include the following in their checklist:
- Blower Compartment: Dirt and dust drawn into your HVAC system can clog up the blower wheel, which causes it to run inefficiently.
- Burners: A furnace’s burners may need to be cleaned and, in some cases, adjusted; the result is a more reliable, efficient appliance.
- Filter Cleaning/Replacement: Just like in your air conditioner, the filter cleans out the air, but a clogged filter can affect efficiency and indoor air quality.
- Wiring: Numerous wires are connected to your furnace; during a tune-up, they can be inspected and replaced, and connections tightened or replaced as well.
- Duct Connections: A check of air flow can determine if any ductwork connections need replacement or if issues with air flow require duct sealing.
The technician will also assess the safety of your furnace. It’s always great for it to run efficiently. But a poorly maintained furnace may be a fire or explosion hazard; it can also emit carbon monoxide and put your family in danger. By checking for issues that can lead to any of these consequences, a maintenance technician can ensure your furnace is safe to run.
Other aspects of a furnace tune up can include:
- Heat Exchanger Inspection
- Ignition/Flame Sensor Test
- Lubrication of Moving Parts
- Thermostat Recalibration
- Belt and Fan Inspection/Adjustment
- Checking Vents for Blocks/Leaks
- Exhaust System Test
- Verify/Adjust Gas Pressure
- Gas/Oil Connections Check
- System Controls Test
- Condensate Drain Cleaning
Why Tune Up Your Furnace Once a Year?
Furnace components are stressed by typical operating conditions. Even if the system worked fine the previous season, small issues may crop up and impact performance this time around. Typically, an unmaintained furnace will require more repairs and won’t last as long. Your home may be less comfortable as well. Also, many furnace warranties require regular maintenance by a certified professional. Failing to receive service can void the warranty.
Schedule a Furnace Tune Up with Express Plumbing Heating & Air
We offer a yearly plan that includes annual inspections and upkeep. Our mission is to provide high quality, professional service and ensure your furnace gets you through the coldest months of the year. Your furnace is cared for as if it were our own. To schedule a tune up or other maintenance appointment and learn more about our protection plans (which include tune ups and same day service), call us at (208) 398-0309.
