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What to Expect from a Furnace Tune-up

What to Expect from a Furnace Tune-up

Should you get your furnace tuned-up before the winter season? Service technicians say yes, and most furnace manufacturers make their warranty dependent on an annual tune-up. Routine maintenance is important with any home system or appliance, but especially with a furnace. Before you talk yourself out of that annual furnace inspection, remember that preventative maintenance can extend the life of your furnace and save you money in repairs.

Here are the things that your HVAC service company will inspect during their visit.

What Happens During a Furnace Tune-Up?

Your professional HVAC service company will perform the following checklist:

1. Evaluate airflow and ventilation

Your HVAC technician will check for any blocked ducts. Obstructed airflow will reduce furnace efficiency and cost you money.

2. Clean the blower compartment

The blower wheel often needs to be cleaned and lubricated. Removing and inspecting the wheel is part of the tune-up process.

3. Examine ductwork for holes and leaks

Obviously, leaky ductwork is bad news. It allows air to escape, wastes energy, and increases utility bills. Your HVAC technician will thoroughly examine your ductwork for possible holes.

4. Clean and replace air filters

Your air filters play an important role in the heating process as well as in your indoor air quality. During a tune-up, a professional will clean or replace air filters as needed.

5. Test your thermostat

The purpose of a tune-up is simply to ensure that everything is in proper working order, including your thermostat.

6. Adjust the pilot and burner on gas-powered units

Your HVAC technician will carefully evaluate the combustion efficiency and adjust accordingly.

7. Examine wires and connections

It is important that your furnace is operating at a certain level, and inspecting the wires and connections will indicate that level. If your furnace is using more power or energy than it should be, your HVAC technician will diagnose the problem and make necessary repairs.

8. Check for moisture or rust buildup

Moisture in the ductwork can negatively affect your health. A furnace tune-up will determine any moisture or rust buildup.

How Else Can You Save Energy?

Tuning up your furnace increases energy savings by up to 30%, but what else can you do to help your utility bill?

The best way to conserve energy is to be smart with your thermostat. Try turning your heat down when you’re away from home or when you’re in bed. Unnecessary heating will bump up your energy bill.

Additionally, you should keep an eye on your furnace even without the presence of an HVAC technician. Use your eyes and ears to note any potential problems, and call a professional if necessary. Catching small problems early can save money and energy.

You don’t have to sacrifice home comfort to save money on your heating bills. If you have any further questions, or if you would like to have your furnace inspected, contact Indoor Air Quality today. We serve homeowners in Highlands Ranch and throughout the Denver Metro Area. Our highest priority is the comfort of your home.