Furnace Maintenance Checklist: 5 Easy Steps for a Tune-Up
Maintaining your furnace is not as hard as you think. Your furnace is a major home system, and should be well cared for. By performing these few easy checks on a regular basis, you can get the most out of any type of furnace.
We have been servicing furnaces for years here at Broadley’s, and know the ins and outs of the different types of heating systems. We know how important it is to have a furnace tune-up at least once a year, and will take you through our furnace service checklist in this article!
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Furnace Maintenance Checklist: Essential Steps for Every Year
Your HVAC system is important to your comfort and your health. It provides warm air in the winter and cool air in the hotter months. A well functioning HVAC system will not only provide you with a safe heating or cooling environment, but can also save you money on energy bills.
We have put together this brief furnace maintenance checklist, outlining the following benefits to maintaining your HVAC system at optimal levels. In it, we will cover:
- Scheduling an appointment for an annual inspection
- Benefits of cleaning certain components
- Benefits of regular filter changes
- Benefits of clearing debris away from inside and outside units
- Thermostat testing to make sure it is working properly
- Warranty coverage
Furnace Inspection Checklist: DIY Guide
Because most furnaces burn combustible gasses, a thorough furnace inspection is best performed by a trained, qualified technician. Your technician will examine the combustion chamber, chimney, and blower motor to ensure that your system has proper ventilation and that any gas by-product such as carbon monoxide is efficiently vented.
Other mechanical parts such as the heat exchanger, inducer assembly, and inducer motor, and ignitor as well as the ignition system are also tested during maintenance.
But there is plenty that the homeowner can perform to help keep things running smoothly. These DIY steps can help save both time and money and are easily done by the homeowner.
Check Carbon Monoxide Detector
Make sure that your carbon monoxide detector is functioning and batteries are changed on a regular basis. Carbon monoxide is a by-product of combustion and is a colorless and odorless gas that is highly toxic.
When your system is working properly, it is expelled out of your home. If there is a leak, your CO detector should alert you. A well functioning CO detector is your best defense against carbon monoxide poisoning.
Clean Around the Unit
Make sure that your indoor and outdoor units are free of dirt build-up and debris. Look for any unintended leaks or air openings and make sure that the drains or condensate line is open and functioning.
Change the Air Filter
We recommend changing your air filter once every 3 months. A clean furnace air filter will not only help provide better air quality but it can also save you money. Improved airflow will help your system run more efficiently, easing the job on your furnace, while also lowering energy bills.
Heater Maintenance Checklist For Specific Types Of Systems
Most of our homes now have air conditioning as well as heating systems. And depending on the type of system you have, some maintenance that is specific to your system may be required.
Gas Furnace Maintenance Checklist
Gas furnace maintenance has some specific tasks not seen in other types of furnaces. Your gas furnace requires the following checks and adjustments:
- Check gas pressure
- Check and adjust gas valve
It is important to note that any heating system powered by gas – even a heat pump – requires these additional checks.
Electric Heater Maintenance Checklist
While an electrical heater doesn’t operate with combustible fuel, it does require regular checks to ensure all the wiring is looking good, and your system is operating efficiently. Your technician will check the controls, electrical wiring, fans, fan blades and fan belts as well as the fan motor.
Unit Heater Maintenance Checklist
A unit heater is a type of HVAC system that conditions single-space room air. These types of units can provide air conditioning or heat and can be powered by electricity or gas. Like all heating equipment, a unit heater requires regular maintenance to ensure proper ventilation and efficiency.
Furnace Inspection Checklist and Indoor Air Quality
Here is your furnace inspection checklist:
- Check for air flow and air leaks
- Check air quality.
- Check carbon monoxide detector
- Check for proper ventilation
FAQs
Your HVAC provider is part of your home maintenance team. At Broadley’s, we take pride in providing the best in customer service and information. If you live outside of our service area, make sure that your provider outlines what is covered in their furnace inspection and the inspection cost.
And feel free to ask questions of your technician. It is important for every homeowner to know the signs of when your system needs service, or it’s time for a replacement.
How much does it cost to check a furnace?
An average annual furnace inspection costs between $80 and $250. It may run more depending on the need for additional work such as plumbing. It is important to know that your warranty may require an annual furnace inspection.
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How do I know if my furnace needs service?
Look for signs of needing service such as visible corrosion, funny odors, or a thermostat that seems off. You should still have your furnace serviced at least once a year, no matter what condition it’s in.
How often should a furnace be serviced?
Your furnace should be serviced at least once a year. Regular furnace service will help you get the most lifespan out of your system, and also maintain energy efficiency.
If you are in Ocean City, NJ, and in need of a furnace or AC service, give us a call at (609) 390-3907, or click here to contact us online!