Written on: September 6, 2016
When the seasons change and winter is approaching, homeowners start to think about their heating systems. Having an efficient furnace helps to reduce the overall energy consumption and conserve on your utility budget. One of the important component to keep your heating system functioning correctly is to have an annual tune-up performed on your furnace or heating system. Ace-Robbins performs furnace tune-ups for communities like Lake Winola and all surrounding areas.
This article discusses the importance of tune-ups and why homeowners should consider having their system tuned up every year.
Some people may think that having your heating system tuned up every year is overkill. However, let’s make this analogy. Is it advisable to skip going to the dentist? Obviously, the answer is no. Your heating system is no different. When a technician comes to service your heater, he identifies components that may need attention.
The lack of an annual tune-up will not mean that your heating system is going to fail however, it does mean that the system may not be burning fuel a hundred percent efficiently. If you skip your tune up, some telltale signs of potential problems for this Winter’s heating system may be missed. This could result in a “no-heat” emergency repair call.
Every heating contractor performance different levels of tune up services. The following excerpt from a blog post written by the home inspector identifies the most common aspects of a furnace tune-up that most heating manufacturers suggest;
The vent system needs to be checked for blockage and/or leakage. This includes the outside termination and the connections at and internal to the furnace.
Combustion gases must be analyzed and compared to the unit specifications.
The blower access door needs to be checked to make sure it makes a tight seal at the furnace.
The fresh air intake grills and louvers need to be checked for blockage.
The heat exchanger needs to be inspected for rust and corrosion.
The burners need to be checked for proper ignition, burner flame, and flame sense.
The drainage system needs to be checked for blockage and/or leakage. This includes the hoses internal to the furnace. The condensate drain and trap need to be cleaned, and the water replaced in the trap.
The blower wheel needs to be checked for debris and cleaned if necessary – this requires complete removal of the blower wheel.
An amp-draw test should be conducted on the blower motor and compared with what is listed.
The wiring needs to be checked for corrosion and damage.
The filters need to be checked (but this needs to be done much more frequently than annually).
In addition to this list, heating contractors say that they regularly do static air pressure checks, gas pressure testing, and temperature rise checks.
Read the entire article by clicking here.
One reason to have an annual tune-up is to validate your heating systems warranty. In some cases, the manufacturer’s warranty or extended warranty may be notified if they deem that the heating system was not properly maintained.
As noted before, another big reason to have an angel heating system tune-up is to reduce the risk of a potential break down during the midst of the winter. the service technician is trained to identify potential areas of concern before they become a major problem.
Considering that heating system replacement cost can run $3,000 to $10,000 or more, another great reason to have a furnace tune-up is to extend the longevity of your current system. It stands to reason that taking care of your equipment will prolong its life span.
Additionally, maintaining your heating system decreases the efficiency loss due to age. According to EnergyStar.gov 46% of the cost for the average 3,000 sq. ft. single-family home’s utility bill derives from it’s heating and cooling system. Having an efficient and properly operating furnace or heating system will help to reduce your monthly energy bills.
Get started today by calling us to schedule your heating system tune-up. We provide Tunhhannock, Scranton, Wilks-Barre , Lake Winola furnace tune-up service and all surrounding communities.
Call (570) 836.3232 To get started.