At At Your Service Heating & Cooling LLC, we pride ourselves on helping homeowners get the best service for their heating systems throughout the Baltimore area. Besides how to fix common furnace problems, the number-one question homeowners have is how to avoid issues in the first place. The answer is to schedule routine maintenance checks.
With a regular maintenance schedule, you can prevent up to 90% of common furnace issues. In addition to making preventative repairs during a tune-up, an experienced HVAC technician can also detect subtle warning signs of trouble and correct them before they cause a problem. To help you save as much money as you can on furnace maintenance, here are our top suggestions.
Schedule Service at Least Once Per Year
The most fundamental service for any furnace is an annual inspection and tune-up. During this process, the HVAC technician inspects the entire system for any signs of damage or wear and tear. They check each part to ensure it’s working properly, and they make any necessary adjustments to optimize your system. These slight tweaks can make your furnace run more efficiently, saving you money and keeping your home cozy. Here is how a typical furnace maintenance service unfolds:
Visual Inspection
The technician inspects the exterior of the furnace to make sure there are no flammable materials or obstacles near it. They also check for signs of damage or corrosion.
Heat Exchanger Inspection
The heat exchanger helps transfer heat from combustible gas to the air, all while ensuring the furnace does not leak carbon monoxide. Ensuring the heat exchanger is working properly not only keeps your system working but also protects your entire family.
Ignition System and Burner Inspection
Whether your furnace uses a pilot light or has an electric ignition, the technician will ensure that this vital component is functioning properly and shows no sign of damage. They will check for cracks, deformation, and the presence of rust or soot.
If one of our technicians sees that something needs repair, they will always explain the reason to you first. They will only repair your system with your approval and give you the cost details.
Filter Cleaning and Replacement
Your furnace filter protects the entire system from dirt and dust. It also helps improve indoor air quality by capturing allergens and particles from outside that would otherwise escape into your home. An annual furnace filter replacement is one of the simplest, most affordable ways to keep your entire system running well.
Blower and Motor Inspection
The technician will ensure the blower and motor are free of dust and debris, clean them if necessary, and tighten any belts that have loosened over the year.
Electrical System Inspection
Many intricate wires help your furnace operate. The technician will ensure that none of the wires are frayed or damaged and make sure they are connected properly.
Overall Performance Check
The technician will also perform a general maintenance inspection based on the type of furnace in your home. Gas and electrical furnaces have unique features and components that need to be individually inspected and optimized. At At Your Service Heating & Cooling LLC, we make sure every service is personalized to your system needs.
Warranty Check
Your furnace likely has a warranty that ensures complete replacement of parts if they break down prematurely. One thing many homeowners do not realize is that they have requirements to uphold this warranty. Maintenance is the most critical aspect of furnace warranties. You must demonstrate to the manufacturer that you properly maintained the system throughout ownership to receive coverage in the event of mechanical failure.
To save money, make sure you review your furnace warranty policy and maintain it regularly. Keep your technician’s report and your invoice, so you can prove that you have had the system serviced by licensed experts.
Compare Quotes
You can save money on furnace maintenance by comparing the cost of service among providers in your area. You should also only work with a company that provides you with a clear quote when you inquire about their service. At At Your Service Heating & Cooling LLC, we offer transparent pricing that lets you know exactly what you’ll pay for our work.
Look for Seasonal Specials
Fall is the best time to get furnace maintenance because HVAC companies tend to offer limited-time tune-up deals. Winter will cost more because the demand for service is higher, and more people need repair. Scheduling furnace maintenance a few weeks before you turn on the heat will save you money on service. Be sure to check a company’s website and look for any specials they’re offering, so you can take full advantage of any deals.
Use Your Furnace Efficiently
Programmable thermostats can optimize your system to perform better and consume less power. They are also ideal for reducing power use when you don’t need the heat, like when you aren’t at home.
You should also avoid turning the heat up too high to avoid placing unnecessary strain on your system. The ideal heat setting during the winter months is 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
Make Upgrades When Necessary
Upgrading your furnace will provide the greatest savings. Older systems (10+ years) cost more to operate and usually more to maintain. They are also more prone to breakdowns and general wear-and-tear-related repairs, so owners will have to pay more to keep their systems functional.
Take Preventative Measures
Avoid DIY repairs, especially when it comes to the intricate internal parts of your furnace. Always call a professional if you suspect signs of damage or notice changes to your system’s performance.
For example, these are all signs that you should call an HVAC professional:
- Burning smell while in use
- Uneven heating
- Not producing enough heat
- Strange noises (banging, hissing, screeching)
- Higher energy bills than usual
- Water or fume leaks
By calling in a professional to address any concerns, you can avoid more serious complications and costly repairs down the line.
Make Sure Your Vents Are Unobstructed
Blocked vents can make your furnace work harder to heat your home, so avoid placing any furniture or other objects around or on top of them. It’s best to keep them clear to avoid placing undue strain on your system, which could raise the cost of operating it.
Avoid Running the Heat When It Isn’t Necessary
When the temperature has only fallen a few degrees, it isn’t necessary to keep the heat running all day. Instead, wear a sweater or cardigan and use blankets. Improving your home’s insulation can also have a profound impact on the cost of operating and maintaining your furnace.
Call Us at At Your Service Heating & Cooling LLC for Furnace Maintenance
We offer affordable, reliable furnace maintenance in Baltimore and surrounding areas. Our experienced team of HVAC technicians knows how to work on all types of heating and cooling systems. We also offer indoor air quality solutions, backup generators, and more. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a service, give At Your Service Heating & Cooling LLC a call today.
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