Pumpkin spice, fall leaves, cooler weather...I don't know about you, but fall can't come soon enough for us! Fall doesn't officially start until September 23rd but that doesn't mean you shouldn't get a jump start on your annual furnace check-up. Don't get left out in the cold when it matters most! We've got the know-how and we're ready to share the importance of proper furnace maintenance to keep your household cozy all winter long.
Let's fall into what your furnace does for you, and what you can do for your furnace.
Furnace Functions
A furnace is a large heating appliance designed to evenly distribute heat throughout your home or building. Most furnaces are called a forced-air furnace because they direct heated air into multiple rooms with a blower. Typically, these units will generate heat through electricity or burning fuel. Although natural gas and propane are the most common, some furnaces will run off of wood, coal or even oil to maintain a cozy and comfortable indoor temperature. You can control this temperature via a thermostat. Keeping your furnace in check will help keep its longevity for future winters to come.
Fall Follow-Up
Annual maintenance checks are impertinent to keeping your furnace running as efficiently as possible throughout the winter months. Skipping one could mean extra costs and long, cold nights ahead. Well maintained units lead to extended life spans and less wear and tear overall - saving you money in the long run. Restricted and limited airflow will cause additional strain on the furnace where costly break downs are more likely to occur. Furnace manufacturers will recommend annual inspections and maintenance by a qualified technician; Damages caused by improper maintenance will often even void your warranty!
Did you know? Your furnace works year-round! You can't in fact use your A/C without the help of your furnace.
Funny Feeling
Feeling Unwell? Might be time to get your furnace serviced. Health hazards caused by Carbon Monoxide leaks are difficult to detect due to its odorless, tasteless and colorless properties but can potentially be revealed with a simple service call. Carbon Monoxide poisoning can be a serious health hazard that can cause ailments including nausea, dizziness, headaches and in the worst-case scenarios, even death. In especially unsafe circumstances, your furnace could be "red-tagged," meaning you won't be able to use your furnace again until a certified technician repairs it.
Familiarize Yourself
So, what actually happens during a fall maintenance inspection? Technicians will have a list of items to check including but not limited to:
Thermostat - Switching your thermostat from cooling to heating to make sure the furnace kicks on and runs properly.
Electrical Components - Inspecting electrical connections and testing your voltage to prevent component failure.
Changing Filters - Prevent strain on your furnace from a dirty filter.
Removing Dirt and Dust - Vacuuming out the burner and blower cavities to clear debris.
Flame Sensor Check - Soot build-up can prevent the furnace from turning on.
Lubrication - Keep your bearings and other components from causing tolling friction and keeping things smooth.
Carbon Monoxide Levels - Ensuring the safety of your family from toxic gas.
Flue Condition - Checking for gaps and holes to make sure your home is properly ventilated.
Belts and Pulleys - Inspect for impairment and loose belts to prevent snapping and damages to other components.
Final Thoughts
Annual Furnace checks can be the difference between feeling warm and comfortable all winter long and finding yourself caught in the cold. From expensive repairs and complete furnace failures to the health of your family, there's no time like the present to schedule your furnace maintenance check. Give us a call today and rest assured that you are in good hands..
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