What’s Included in a Professional Furnace Maintenance Service?
Annual furnace maintenance may be one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get the most from your heating system. Ideally, you’ll have an inspection or cleaning done before and after the cooler months to ensure your system runs safely and efficiently all year. An inspection and cleaning of key parts such as the air filter and mower blower are included in your annual tune-up in addition to a full diagnostic report from your technician.
What Is Professional Furnace Maintenance?
Residential furnace maintenance teams follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure that the unit is kept in proper working condition. The key difference between maintenance and repair work is that maintenance aims to prevent common issues that lead to repairs. It differs from emergency service in that maintenance is typically scheduled days or weeks in advance and is not intended to resolve any critical failures.
Initial System Inspection
The first step in the annual furnace tune-up is to spot any damage that can be detected by engaging the senses. We will have a maintenance checklist in hand to help you out. For instance, a technician may be able to spot wear, hear an odd noise or smell something unusual just by standing near the unit. The initial inspection should take just a few minutes and will help determine which components might need more attention during the service call.
Furnace Cleaning Services
A furnace cleaning is a key part of the routine furnace inspection process. During the cleaning, a technician will clean burners and other ignition components by removing dirt, dust or other debris that have accumulated on them. Getting rid of debris may reduce the risk of spontaneous combustion or other potential safety hazards.
Air Filter Inspection and Replacement
Clogged air filters are among one of the easiest furnace failure causes to diagnose and avoid. Ideally, you’ll have the filter changed every 30 to 90 days depending on manufacturer recommendations. A dirty or clogged filter can have a negative impact on heating system efficiency and can also reduce indoor air quality because it won’t be able to catch as many airborne particles.
Electrical Component Checks
The electrical component checkup portion of your furnace tune-up may be one of the most important. A loose connection, frayed wire or other electrical issues may result in furnace failure and increase the risk of an electrical fire. If any problems are found, do not attempt to fix them by yourself as it represents a profound safety risk to yourself and others occupying your home.
Blower Motor and Airflow Inspection
A clean and properly lubricated blower motor can result in proper airflow throughout the house. This results in consistent warmth throughout your property as well as greater efficiency.
Heat Exchanger Inspection
Inspecting the heat exchanger is another key part of preventative furnace maintenance because you avoid many issues by keeping a close eye on it. If the heat exchanger isn’t working properly, it may overheat, which can result in the furnace short cycling for no reason. A cracked heat exchanger may result in carbon monoxide leaks or other serious safety hazards.
Thermostat Testing and Calibration
If the thermostat is communicating with the furnace, it may engage in short cycling or fail to turn on at all. Ultimately, your home may be warmer or cooler than you want it to be or result in a severe drop in overall system efficiency. A technician may recommend an upgrade if your current thermostat isn’t working properly or is more than a decade old.
Gas Line and Fuel System Inspection
This part is only applicable if you have a gas furnace, and a technician will check to make sure that there aren’t any leaks or issues with combustion. The ignition and flame sensors will be checked to ensure that they work properly while connections are inspected to ensure that they aren’t loose or cracked.
System Performance Testing
A technician will have the furnace go through a full cycle to ensure that it is operating in accordance with manufacturer standards. This person will look for proper combustion, ensure that the unit reaches the correct temperature and that it cycles in a timely manner.
Safety Checks and Carbon Monoxide Awareness
Vents will be inspected to ensure that they are clear and allow gas to escape a sufficient distance away from the home. Your technician will also check limit switches and other safety features to ensure that they work properly. You’ll also receive information about the importance of carbon monoxide safety and signs of a potential leak.
Maintenance Report and Recommendations
After the inspection, you’ll receive a full diagnostic report highlighting any issues that were discovered. Physical damage, electrical issues or venting problems may need to be resolved immediately while something such as replacing a thermostat may not require urgent attention at the moment.
How Often Should Furnace Maintenance Be Scheduled?
It’s generally best to schedule service at least once a year during the fall or spring months. A fall inspection allows you to take care of lingering problems before the weather turns colder while a spring inspection allows you to take care of issues before mothballing the system for several months. Maintenance plans may be available that meet your needs and budget.
Why Professional Furnace Maintenance Is Worth It
The money that you spend on professional service will typically be offset by improved unit efficiency and a longer useful life. This means that you’ll pay less each month to heat your home and may avoid costly heating system repairs or a full replacement for several years to come.
Call Melbourne One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating
Scheduling a maintenance furnace appointment means a full cleaning, air filter replacement and check of all key electrical and heating components. If you are in need of service for your Melbourne, FL home, contact the pros at Melbourne One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating today before any major problems arise. Remember, if we’re not on time, you don’t pay a dime.