Is a Furnace Tune-Up Really Necessary?
Do you really need a furnace tune-up every year? Many homeowners don’t do it, but there are a few good reasons they should, especially if it’s an older furnace.
Furnace manufacturers all recommend annual inspections and maintenance by a certified HVAC technician. But why?
Preventive Maintenance
Like a car, furnaces have lots of parts that can wear out over time. Many components are under a lot of stress, and can degrade. A furnace tune-up allows a professional to examine the inner workings of a furnace to ensure all of the important components are functioning correctly, and safely.
Fixing any issue in the fall or early winter means you’re less likely to have a breakdown when it’s really cold outside, and when HVAC technicians are in high demand.
Also just like a car, older furnaces tend to have more problems. The older they get, the more inevitable a problem becomes. Most technicians will strongly urge you to have an older furnace serviced for safety reason.
Safety
To provide heat, a furnace has to burn fuel. Even a small problem in this combustion process can lead to harmful carbon monoxide levels or a dangerous gas leak. Having a trained technician test and inspect your entire heating system each year will ensure it’s safe to operate.
Cleaner Air
Most furnace tune-ups include some basic cleaning and a new air filter. This cleaning process can help remove some of the dust and debris in the system, improving air quality throughout your home. More involved tune-ups may also include duct cleaning, which removes even more dust and dirt.
Proper Airflow
Restricted or limited airflow places an unnecessary strain on your furnace that can lead to a shortened lifespan and/or increased repairs. During a furnace tune-up, the HVAC technician will perform a static airflow test. This test will measures how hard the fan is working to move air throughout the home.
Improve Energy Efficiency
A furnace tune-up includes gas calibration and the cleaning and inspection of the furnace burner to ensure correct temperature output. In addition to ensuring safe operation, this will keep your furnace running as efficiently as possible all season.
Maintain Manufacturer’s Warranty
Some HVAC manufacturers require you to have regular maintenance on the furnace and to keep records of all work performed. Failure to do so could void your warranty.
What is Included in a Furnace Tune-Up?
- Testing system and safety controls
- Cleaning coils, burners and components
- Cleaning and lubricating required parts
- Adjusting/repairing electrical components
- Combustion analysis
- Adjust air/fuel rations
- Test and clean flame sensors
- Remove soot from burners
- Inspecting heat exchanger
- Testing condenser fan motor capacitor
- Check service valves for leaks
- Replace air filter (standard 1” typically included)
- Testing for proper voltage
- Tighten/align belts and pulleys
- And more
Don’t take chances when it comes to the safety of you and your family. A simple furnace tune-up is typically less than $100, and it is likely to saver you money in the long run. Questions? give us a call.
We do our best to provide current and accurate information, but this content could contain errors or information that is not correct for your situation or equipment. Resources found on our website are provided as general information. Reddi Industries does not assume any liability resulting from the provided information. If you attempt to repair or modify HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or other equipment in your home or business, always consult your equipment’s operating manual first, and only do so if you are qualified.
