What Is Furnace Maintenance? Why do I need it?
Furnace maintenance is a preventive heating service that involves a thorough inspection and tune-up of your system. Given that most people only call for HVAC service when something goes wrong, you may be wondering, “Do I really need furnace maintenance service?”
Yes—you really do need furnace maintenance if you want to save money, stay comfortable, and enjoy some other benefits. To explain why this is the case, here are some helpful answers to common questions about furnace maintenance service.
WHAT DOES FURNACE MAINTENANCE INCLUDE?
Furnace tune-ups involving checking all of the system’s essential components and adjusting, cleaning, testing, and/or lubricating them, as needed. Some of the specific tasks involved in our furnace maintenance checklist include:
Inspecting the vent system and air intake grilles, removing any blockages
Checking the heat exchanger for signs of damage or corrosion
Examining and cleaning the blower, removing any debris
Checking the blower motor and testing its amp draw
Inspecting the electrical connections, tightening them and/or replacing damaged wiring as needed
Checking the burner and flame sensor
Examining the belts for any signs of damage or cracks
Inspecting the thermostat and calibrating it as needed
Lubricating all moving parts in the heating system
Checking the air filter, cleaning it, and replacing it as needed
Checking and testing the system’s safety controls and startup cycle
If you have an oil or gas furnace, additional steps included in furnace maintenance service include:
Examining fuel lines for potential leaks
Checking and testing gas pressure, the burner, and the pilot
Inspecting the thermocouple
And more!
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I GET A FURNACE TUNE-UP?
At McCoy’s Heating & Air Conditioning, we recommend getting furnace tune-ups:
At least once a year: Annual furnace maintenance can keep your system running efficiently. If you’re serious about maintaining optimal indoor air quality—or if anyone in your home has respiratory issues or a compromised immune system―it’s generally best to get furnace tune-ups more frequently, like two to four times per year.
Before the cold season: The ideal time for furnace maintenance service is before you’ll be running your system on a daily basis when the temperatures drop. In the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, the best time for a furnace tune-up is usually during the end of summer and the beginning of fall. By getting a furnace tune-up before winter sets in, you can make sure your system is ready to support your comfort needs during the entire cold season to come!
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ANNUAL FURNACE MAINTENANCE?
Regular furnace tune-ups offer several advantages, including:
Saving money: Furnace maintenance keeps your heating system running as efficiently as possible. That can mean monthly savings in energy bills. Over time, this savings can cover the cost of regular furnace tune-ups!
Maintaining the warranty: Many furnace warranties include terms that require regular maintenance. If yours does, getting routine tune-ups is key to keeping your warranty valid and ensuring you have the coverage you need if anything does go wrong during the warranty period.
Minimizing the risk of unexpected breakdowns: With regular furnace maintenance, minor issues can be identified and addressed before they become more serious problems. That means fewer system failures, a reduced need for heating repairs, and minimal chances that you’ll be left without heat during the cold season.
Maximizing the service life of a furnace: A well-maintained furnace can last for well over a decade, letting you get the most out of your investment.
WHAT DOES FURNACE MAINTENANCE COST?
Furnace maintenance is one of the most affordable heating services you can get from a professional HVAC company. While the exact cost can depend on the type of furnace you have, in general, you can get the best deal on furnace maintenance when you sign up for a maintenance plan.
Whether you’re ready to find out more about our heating maintenance plans—or it’s time to schedule a furnace tune-up, simply contact McCoy’s Heating & Air Conditioning!
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