Before winter sets in, you no doubt want your furnace to be in good condition. As with all our appliances that work hard to make our lives comfortable, our furnaces require some TLC from time to time. This includes a detailed inspection and a thorough cleanup. Over the years, dirt, dust, mold, and pet dander collect in your heating system and cause a world of problems. You have likely experienced the result of a dirty furnace at some point already. You may be wondering if a heater tune-up is worth it. Hearn Plumbing Heating & Air is here to shed some light on the matter.
Are Annual Furnace Inspections Really Necessary?
The short answer: absolutely! There are so many reasons to schedule annual maintenance. While furnaces and boilers generally require one annual service, heat pumps and mini-splits should get serviced twice a year if they are used for heating and cooling. Here are three reasons to stick to your yearly furnace maintenance.
Increases Efficiency
Everyone wants to save money on utility bills. One great way to do this is by keeping your furnace clean. When dirt clogs the system, it makes your furnace work harder to overcome the obstacle. This can use more gas or electricity. Regular cleaning helps prevent this and can help you save money.
Fewer Repairs
A well-maintained furnace is less likely to break down. This can also save money on unnecessary repairs. During our annual inspections, we check for worn or failing parts that could cause your furnace to stop working in the future.
Extends its Lifespan
A dirty furnace undergoes more wear and tear. This will eventually cause major components to stop working, and you will have to replace your furnace. You can help delay this with regular maintenance.
Supports Safe Operation
Fuel-burning furnaces need to vent properly and burn cleanly. A tune-up gives a technician the chance to inspect the burners, heat exchanger, and venting for problems that could affect safety, including issues that can lead to carbon monoxide. Learn more about carbon monoxide safety.
What Happens During a Heater Tune-Up?
A thorough tune-up goes beyond a quick look. Depending on your system, a technician may:
- Check and replace the air filter, if needed
- Inspect and clean the burners and flame sensor
- Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks or damage
- Test the ignition system and safety controls
- Check the blower motor and electrical connections
- Verify the thermostat is working correctly
- Inspect the venting and check for gas leaks
Scheduling professional furnace service each year helps catch small problems before they turn into breakdowns on the coldest night of the year.
How Often Should You Service?
Natural Gas Furnace
Natural gas furnaces need to be serviced at least once a year, ideally in early fall before the heating season begins. These annual services are for your safety and benefit. During a tune-up, an HVAC technician can check gas connections for leaks and inspect the system for other safety concerns.
Electric Furnace
While electric furnaces generally last longer than gas furnaces and require less maintenance, they still benefit from annual tune-ups. Electric furnaces can cost more to run than gas furnaces, so you want to keep yours well-maintained and as energy efficient as possible.
Propane Furnace
As with other furnaces, propane furnaces should be serviced every year. This helps keep your furnace in prime condition to get you through harsh Northeast Ohio winters.
Signs Your Furnace Needs Service Sooner
Even if your annual tune-up isn’t due yet, call a professional if you notice:
- Unusual noises, such as banging, squealing, or rattling
- Rooms that heat unevenly or a furnace that runs constantly
- A sudden jump in your heating bills
- A burner flame that looks yellow instead of blue
- A furnace that turns on and off frequently
Cost of Furnace Maintenance
The cost of a furnace tune-up depends on your system type, its age and condition, and whether any parts need to be replaced. While inspections alone are beneficial, a full tune-up that includes cleaning provides the most value. Homeowners should include annual furnace maintenance in their budget—it’s worth it! Ask us about our H+ Membership for ongoing maintenance benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heater Tune-Ups
When Is the Best Time to Schedule a Heater Tune-Up?
Early fall is ideal, before you need your heat every day. Scheduling ahead of the busy season also makes it easier to find an appointment that works for you.
Can I Tune Up My Furnace Myself?
You can replace your air filter regularly, but a full tune-up involves gas, electrical, and safety components that should be handled by a trained technician.
How Long Does a Heater Tune-Up Take?
Most tune-ups can be completed in a single visit. The exact time depends on your system and whether any repairs are needed.
Reliable Yearly Furnace Maintenance Near You
Do you need a heater tune-up soon? Contact Hearn Plumbing Heating & Air today for a comprehensive heater tune-up. Call us at (440) 428-3905 or contact us online to schedule service.
