You may be wondering if furnace maintenance is important. Many homeowners ignore furnace maintenance until they have no heat. Maintaining your furnace isn’t just knowing that it’s working. It’s also about health and safety.
Maybe the real question is: When is the best time to schedule furnace maintenance? In this blog, Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing offers insights about the importance of heating maintenance. We’ll also answer the question, “What does furnace maintenance include?”
Heating Maintenance: Why It’s Essential
Before we talk about the best time to schedule furnace maintenance, let’s consider its importance.
1. Longevity: Regular heating maintenance can increase the lifespan of your equipment. Taking care of your heating system means you’ll get the most value out of your investment.
2. Efficiency: A well-maintained furnace is more efficient. Greater efficiency equals lower energy bills. Over time, you could save a lot of money in utility costs.
3. Safety: Heating systems can become unsafe when not maintained properly. Combustion systems are especially at risk. Serious issues such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide emissions may occur and can even be fatal. Regular check-ups can help identify potential hazards before they become dangerous situations.
4. Performance: Regular furnace maintenance gives the trained Brackett HVAC technician an opportunity to assess the heat distribution throughout your home. Consistent heat means you won’t experience cold spots or uneven heat in your living spaces.
What Does Furnace Maintenance Include?
As you consider the importance of having a furnace maintenance plan, it’s also helpful to know the basics of what is usually covered in a furnace maintenance service call:
1. Inspection: A thorough examination of your furnace is carried out to identify any wear and tear or potential problems. This includes checking the combustion chamber for cracks and inspecting the flue for blockages.
2. Cleaning: Dust and dirt can make your furnace inefficient. The technician will clean the burners, blower motor, and other critical components so everything runs smoothly.
3. Lubrication: Moving parts within the furnace will be lubricated as needed. Proper lubrication reduces wear and tear.
4. Filter Replacement: A dirty air filter restricts airflow and can decrease indoor air quality. As part of the maintenance plan, the furnace filter will either be replaced or cleaned.
5. Thermostat Check: Checking the thermostat ensures the furnace and thermostat are communicating. If not, the equipment will not run properly, and the desired temperature inside will not be achieved.
6. Safety Checks: This involves checking for any signs of carbon monoxide leakage and ensuring that all safety switches are working as they should.
When to Schedule Furnace Maintenance
Since we’ve explored the benefits and basic process during heating maintenance, the next big question is when to schedule it. Here are some insights:
1. End of Summer or Early Fall: The end of summer or the beginning is the best time for furnace maintenance. You’ll want to make sure your furnace is in peak condition to handle the winter months ahead. This approach guarantees your home will stay warm even throughout the coldest Evansville, Indiana days.
2. Before Extended Use: Since Evansville is in a region that experiences all four seasons, Brackett suggests having your furnace checked before extended cold periods set in. A well-maintained furnace will keep you warm without sacrificing efficiency and safety.
3. Post-Winter: It’s important to have your furnace checked before heavy use but considering a maintenance check after the winter season can also be helpful. Any issues that might have come to light during intense winter usage can be addressed. You may avoid bigger and more expensive challenges.
4. Noticeable Issues: Signs of broken equipment, such as strange noises, uneven heating, or a sudden spike in energy bills are good indicators that it’s time to schedule heating maintenance. It’s always better to fix issues before they escalate.
5. Annual Check-ups: Don’t assume your furnace is working fine. Scheduling an annual maintenance visit is a smart move. Regular check-ups can identify potential issues early, ensuring your furnace operates at its best.
Conclusion
Furnace and heating maintenance is about more than convenience. Safety and efficiency are the primary concerns. By understanding what furnace maintenance includes and when to schedule it, homeowners can enjoy a warm, comfortable, and safe environment.
Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing employs a highly trained team of HVAC technicians to help keep your furnace operating at its best all season long.
Whether you choose to have your furnace checked before winter, after, or both, the key is having it inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. An annual check-up can help maintain your furnace’s efficiency, extend its lifespan, and reduce the risk of unexpected and costly breakdowns. Remember, a small step in maintenance can lead to a season of warmth and peace of mind.
To schedule your furnace maintenance today, contact the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing.
If you’re experiencing any other heating, air or plumbing challenge, Brackett can handle those, too! Call today.
