Yearly HVAC Maintenance Checklist

As soon as the air gets colder, you know it’s time to winterize your residence for the cooler months ahead. Your heating system is critical to maintaining a cozy, warm atmosphere. A well-maintained furnace provides the comfort you crave while using a reduced amount of energy. Routine inspections also make your system less likely to fail and help lengthen its service life. These are just a few examples of how seasonal HVAC maintenance can save you time, money and inconvenience. Here’s what ought to be on your checklist before the cold temperature arrives.

Set Up HVAC Maintenance

To keep your furnace in top condition, consider reaching out to a professional HVAC technician to conduct furnace maintenance every year. The ideal time to schedule this is in the fall before contractors become flooded with calls during the busy winter months. But, if you miss that window on the calendar, it’s still advantageous to schedule furnace maintenance no matter what the season.

Your technician’s HVAC maintenance list should contain the following:

• Check the thermostat settings: We all desire an efficient HVAC system, and this begins with your thermostat. During a maintenance check, the professional ensures your thermostat is reading the temperature accurately and engaging your furnace at the proper times.
• Tighten the electrical connections: Verifying that all electrical connections are secure is crucial. Loose wires can lead to a higher electricity draw, potentially reducing the life of your system’s components and resulting in a safety risk.
• Measure the motor voltage and current: This step allows an expert to find out if the motor is performing within the recommended parameters, helping to prevent motor failure and unnecessary energy consumption.
• Lubricate moving parts: Friction is the enemy of energy efficiency. Your repair person lubricates all moving parts to minimize resistance, reduce wear and tear, and lower your energy bills.
• Check the condensate drain: Air conditioners, condensing furnaces and whole-house humidifiers send condensate down a drain as they run. This line must be clear of obstructions to prevent water accumulation and potential water damage. Inspecting the drain gives peace of mind that your utility closet won’t suffer water damage.
• Test the system controls: This involves ensuring the furnace starts, runs and turns off according to the manufacturer’s specifications, ensuring safety and security.
• Inspect the ignition burner assembly: This part is responsible for igniting the burner. A professional evaluates the assembly to ensure it’s clean and operating correctly.
• Examine the heat exchanger: The heat exchanger transfers warmth from the fuel to your home’s air. A crack could release carbon monoxide into your home, so detailed examination is a fundamental step on the HVAC maintenance visit.
• Clean the burners: Over time, burners can accumulate dust and debris that impedes performance. A comprehensive cleaning ensures they operate efficiently and safely.
• Inspect for gas leaks: Checking for leaks is vital with gas heating systems. A leak can be dangerous and should be addressed straight away.
• Evaluate the gas pressure: Ideal gas pressure is essential for optimal furnace operation. Pressure that’s too low or too high can impact system efficiency and the warmth in your home.

Routine Furnace Maintenance to Do at Home

Here’s how to keep your furnace running smoothly between professional HVAC maintenance appointments:

• Change your air filter: A plugged filter can strain your furnace. Inspect the filter monthly and exchange it when it appears dirty to increase efficiency and extend your system’s life span.
• Check your thermostat settings: The Department of Energy (DOE) suggests setting your thermostat between 68 and 70 degrees when you’re at home and awake in the winter. Then, set the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees while you’re gone or after you go to bed at night to save up to 10% on your heating costs.
• Clean the air registers: Dust covering your registers can hinder airflow, so vacuum the grilles regularly to promote good air quality. Next, make sure furniture, rugs and curtains don’t cover your return or supply vents to ensure appropriate system balance.
• Reverse the ceiling fan: Set your ceiling fans to spin clockwise during the cooler months to blow warm air down from the ceiling to where you need it most.
• Seal drafts: Check for leaky windows and doors. If you find drafts, seal them with caulk and weatherstripping to keep the cold at bay and decrease your furnace’s workload.
• Analyze your attic insulation level: An under-insulated attic results in heat loss. Add insulation where needed to keep heat indoors and lower your energy expenses.

Call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for HVAC Maintenance in Canada

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is happy to solve your home comfort needs. We ensure peace of mind with our thorough HVAC inspections, fast solutions and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Our certified technicians are known for the way they go above and beyond. You can count on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to make a meaningful difference in your comfort and home enjoyment this winter with furnace maintenance in Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Phone 866-397-3787 today for help preparing your residence for the cold in Canada.