Most HVAC companies and furnace manufacturers recommend having your unit inspected, maintained, and serviced at least once every year. This will go a long way toward keeping you comfortable, ensuring your furnace’s efficiency, and expanding the lifespan of your unit. If you’re curious about what happens during these visits, you’re in the right place. Here’s what you should know.
Inspecting and Maintaining Furnace Parts
The biggest part of a furnace maintenance visit is the actual maintenance of the main components of the furnace. During this time, the HVAC technician visually inspects your unit for signs of damage and wear, then turns the unit on to check its operation. He or she will check moving parts to ensure they are moving freely, listen for noises that could be indicative of problems, and even check for the presence of excess carbon monoxide. The HVAC tech will also look at electrical connections and components to ensure they are not corroded, properly connected, and working as they should be.
Checking the Vents & Ducts
Aside from inspecting and maintaining just the furnace unit, the HVAC technician will also look at the near duct system and try to pinpoint any leaks. Even if your furnace is working exactly as it should, these leaks can allow hot air to escape, thus reducing the efficiency of your unit significantly. The tech will also take a look at your air filter to ensure you are using the right size and type for your unit, and if it is dirty, this will be replaced. If your ducts have not been cleaned in some time, the tech may recommend a thorough cleaning.
Testing the Thermostat
Next up on the list is the thermostat, and your HVAC tech will be sure to stop here, too. He or she will ensure that the temperature on the thermostat matches the actual temperature of the air since this is important for many reasons. Proper temperature calibration ensures that your house stays nice and comfortable and that you don’t feel any drafts or overheating due to misreading temperatures. Some techs may even look at your programmed settings or help you create them if you haven’t quite figured out how to do it on your own.
Examining the Exhaust System
Last, but most certainly not least, your HVAC tech will visually inspect the exhaust piping which carries dangerous combustion gases away from the furnace and outside your home. The tech will make certain that the flue is not blocked or corroded, that it is not leaking inside your home, and that there is no significant buildup of condensation, which could be indicative of serious issues that may threaten your health.
There’s a lot that goes into a regular maintenance visit, but when it comes to your family’s health and comfort, the more thorough the visit, the better. If anything is in disrepair, now is the time to get it fixed – long before the winter cold sets in and leaves you uncomfortable.
