A Simple Furnace Maintenance and Inspection Checklist For This Winter In Charleston
Did you know that you can increase your furnace efficiency with regular maintenance? Several Americans rely on furnaces to heat their homes. These handy appliances contribute a lot to a home’s monthly energy consumption.
If your furnace is old, damaged, or not well-maintained, you are likely to deal with high energy bills. Regular furnace maintenance will ensure that the appliance works at an optimum level and remains safe and efficient.
Here is a checklist of the services you should expect from a furnace maintenance technician.
Flame Sensor and Burner Cleaning
The furnace flame sensor is a small metal rod located in one of the burners. The main purpose of the flame sensor is to ignite all the burners on the surface. If the sensor doesn’t detect a flame, it will shut off the furnace.
Additionally, if the burners are ignited but the flame sensor is dirty, it will also shut off the furnace. Therefore, to make sure that the flame sensor works well, the HVAC technician will inspect, remove, and scrub it to remove built-up char.
Checking Thermostat Settings
It is vital to check and test the thermostat to make sure it is operating well. The technician can use a portable temperature sensor to check if the thermostat is reading the right temperature.
If it is on a schedule, they will test to see if it turns on and off as it should. Depending on the type of furnace you have, the technician will also check the fans for speed and ensure that the dampers or valves are functioning well.
They will also program it according to how much time you spend indoors. Programming the thermostat will save you money and make sure your home is comfortable throughout.
Remember if you hear any unusual sounds from the thermostat (especially when the furnace starts) or smell a burnt odor, you should get in touch with your HVAC repair service company immediately.
Air Filter Maintenance
Your home furnace system also includes an air filter. The main purpose of the air filter is to prevent dust, dirt, and other contaminants from getting into your home. A good rule of thumb is to change the air filter after every three months.
Though you can replace the filter with a few DIY steps, it may be ideal to let the right professionals handle it. HVAC technicians know the best air filter for your furnace and will help you save more.
Furnace Humidifier Cleaning
If you are in a dry climate, your furnace will also include a humidifier. It adds moisture to the air and helps in maintaining the right humidity levels in your home. This is crucial for indoor comfort and good health.
Regardless of the type of humidifier in your furnace, the technician will clean it and make sure it is working properly. Additionally, they will also check to see if the damper is set in the right position and check for any other damages.
Regularly maintaining the humidifier will ensure longevity and efficiency.
Ductwork Inspection and Maintenance
The furnace ductwork’s main job is to serve warm air throughout your home. If there are air leaks, mold, or dust in the furnace, the ductwork will not operate as it should.
Therefore, to maintain efficiency, the technician will inspect the ductwork for signs of physical damages, clogs, or rust and clean or repair it.
Remember to keep any condensation or water away from the ductwork. Moisture will encourage the growth of mold. This will cause air leaks and pose a health risk.
Heat Exchanger Inspection During Furnace Maintenance
This is the core heating system in the furnace. The heat exchanger allows hot gases to transfer heat to the air blowing to and from the air registers. The integrity of the heat exchanger determines how well the system expels the noxious gases.
These gases include carbon monoxide gas which can be harmful to humans. To ensure safety, it is vital that the technician inspects the heat exchangers and detects gas leaks. Several experts also recommend installing a CO2 monitor or detector in your home for additional protection.
Regular heat exchanger maintenance will help detect any damages in good time and save you from costly replacement.
Blower Maintenance
The furnace blower circulates air throughout the home. It ensures that the heat from the furnaces reaches every part of your home. Note that, if the furnace blows cold air , get in touch with your HVAC company immediately.
To maintain the blower, the technician will check the fan wheel to confirm if they are spinning smoothly. They will replace worn-out motors and check the blades, bets, and pulleys. The technician will oil the moving parts and replace or repair any worn-out parts.
Furnace Electricals, Controls, and Safety Inspection
All heating appliances include several electrical units, operating controls, and safety functions. They are designed to make sure the furnace works well and can shut down in case of a malfunction.
Regular maintenance helps to ensure that such systems are well-serviced and operate safely at maximum efficiency. Keeping your furnace healthy and reliable gives you peace of mind.
Therefore, the technician will check for rusty terminals, loose wires, and more.
Use Professional Furnace Repair and Maintenance Services
Routine furnace maintenance and inspection are vital to the efficiency and longevity of your furnace. To have a reliable and well-functioning furnace, it may be ideal to work with a professional HVAC repair and maintenance services provider in your area.
If you are looking for furnace maintenance services in South Carolina, Carolina Climate Control is a one-stop shop for all the heating and cooling services you need. Contact us and schedule your maintenance service today.
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