
Your furnace has an important job. You want to make sure that it remains functional when you need it the most. For that reason, you should consider scheduling a maintenance visit for your system. A well-maintained heating system not only keeps your home warm but also helps reduce energy costs and extends the life of the equipment.
With regular maintenance, you can prevent unexpected breakdowns, improve air quality, and ensure the system operates safely. What type of maintenance do you need to schedule for your furnace? Here is a look at what you can expect during these check-ups.
Initial Inspection and Assessment
When the technician arrives at your home, they will start an initial inspection. During this time, they will look at the overall health of the unit. Along with that, they will want to inspect if there are any signs of wear, damage, or other issues that may need some attention. Your technician will also check the outside of the unit. They want to see if there are any visible signs of damage, corrosion, or debris buildup.
During this time, the technician may also ask you about any unusual noises, smells, or issues with temperature control. They want to make sure to address any current issues that you have been experiencing.
Evaluation of the Thermostat
The thermostat plays a major role in controlling the temperature of your home. The technician will test the thermostat’s calibration and ensure it accurately reflects the home’s temperature.
They will also test the device by setting it to different temperatures and observing how the system responds. The technician wants to make sure it communicates with the heater and cycles the system on and off as needed.
If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, the technician may review the settings with you to ensure you are optimizing your home’s comfort levels. For those with an outdated thermostat, your tech might suggest an upgrade to a more energy-efficient model.
Cleaning of All Components
When it comes to your furnace, all of your components need to be cleaned. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate inside the system. As a result, these dirty parts could overheat your equipment.
The technician will examine the blower. This component is responsible for circulating warm air through the ducts. When there is a buildup of dust and dirt on the blower blades, that can reduce efficiency. In turn, your system will need to work harder to heat the home.
If you have a gas furnace, the burners will need to be cleaned to ensure proper ignition and fuel combustion. Dirty burners can cause incomplete combustion, increasing the risk of carbon monoxide emissions in your home.
Additionally, the heat exchanger should be cleaned. Dirt and debris can reduce its ability to transfer heat. Once again, that could lead to dangerous carbon monoxide exposure.
For those systems with a flame sensor, the technician will make sure it is adequately lit. They will also ensure the flame sensor is clean because a dirty sensor can prevent ignition, causing frequent shutdowns. With a clean sensor, you can have consistent heating throughout the winter.
Your technician will also take the time to replace or clean the air filter. This is important for better airflow and indoor air quality. Plus, using a dirty filter can also increase your energy consumption and utility bills.
Lubrication of Moving Parts
A furnace has many moving parts. If they cannot operate as intended, the risk of overheating and mechanical breakdowns could increase. During the visit, the technician makes sure that the blower motor bearings spin freely. Moving parts can seize without proper lubrication, leading to costly repairs or replacements. If your system has fans or blowers, the motors that drive these components also need regular lubrication to reduce strain and wear.
A Complete Check of Your Electrical Components
Faulty wiring or electrical issues can pose safety risks and affect the system’s performance. Your technician will take time to check these components. They will make sure to tighten all connections. If they are loose, that can lead to overheating or system failure.
You also need the right voltage and amperage. Your technician will check you equipment to make sure it is operating within the manufacturer’s specifications. Additionally, your safety controls should be inspected. The limit switch or thermocouple must be functioning correctly. Otherwise, your system might fail to shut down in the event of overheating. The technician will make those necessary repairs if any electrical issues are found.
Inspection of the Combustion System
If you have a furnace, the combustion system should also be inspected. You need to ensure the fuel is being burned safely. At the visit, the technician will measure the gas pressure. It needs to fall within the manufacturer’s recommended range. If those levels fall out of the safe range, that can increase the risk of carbon monoxide production.
A flue pipe vents exhaust gas out of your home. The technician will inspect this area for blockages, cracks, or corrosion. Harmful gases could enter the living space if something is damaged or not working correctly. Your technician will conduct a full inspection to ensure there are no carbon monoxide leaks.
Testing System Performance
After all the inspections, cleaning, and adjustments are made, the technician will test the furnace. There are a few steps. They will measure the airflow through the system to make sure it is operating in an optimal manner.
Along with that, they will check the air entering and leaving the system. Any disruptions in temperatures could mean you have a problem with your furnace. Everything at this stage should be working normally.
Recommendations for a Follow-Up
Once the maintenance is complete, the technician will provide a comprehensive report of their findings. You should receive a detailed breakdown of the system’s condition, including any repairs or adjustments made and future care recommendations. If the technician identifies any issues that require further attention, they may suggest scheduling an additional visit to repair or replace those components.
You will want to retain this report for your records. If you encounter any issues with the warranty or plan to sell your home, having documented proof of regular maintenance will be invaluable. This report demonstrates responsible homeownership and can enhance your home’s marketability by assuring potential buyers of the system’s upkeep and reliability. Additionally, maintaining these records can help you stay informed about any recurring issues. With that, you can have a better understanding of your heating system.
If you are ready for a furnace maintenance visit in San Antonio, TX, reach out to us at Rosenberg Plumbing & Air. We offer a full range of heating and cooling services to keep you comfortable throughout the year. Along with that, we can also take care of your plumbing needs. With over a decade in business, we prioritize our clients’ safety, comfort, and satisfaction. If you are looking for help with your heating, cooling, or plumbing, contact us today for an in-home consultation.
Tags: Furnace Maintenance, Heating Maintenance