Inspections, Parts Replacements, and Other Ways HVAC Contractors Get Your Furnace Winter-Ready
During the dog days of summer, you likely haven’t thought much about your furnace or its heating capabilities. It’s been hot and humid, so why would you?
However, with fall and winter on the way, your HVAC’s heating system will easily become one of the most important pieces of equipment in your entire household, especially in the first part of the new year when temperatures are at their lowest.
Although it’s hard to imagine now, the frigid, see-your-own-breath level of cold will return, which means a reliable, well-maintained HVAC is your best defense against the elements.
After exploring some of the key signs that indicate it’s time for HVAC maintenance, we’ll take a deep dive into common services that winterize your home and secure its comfort.
Signs It’s Time to Call Your Local HVAC Technician
Sometimes, the signs your furnace needs attention are obvious. Other times, they’re much more subtle. Recognizing these red flags as they occur can help you avoid breakdowns during a cold snap.
- Strange noises: Clanking, banging, grinding, or high-pitched squeals can indicate anything from loose parts to failing motors. If you hear anything unusual, it’s best to call an HVAC technician before the problem escalates into something worse.
- Performance issues: Another warning sign is if your furnace struggles to maintain warmth. If certain rooms stay cold or your furnace fails to achieve comfortable temperatures, there could be issues with airflow, sensors, or the heating components themselves.
- Increased energy expenses: Rising energy bills are another key indicator that your furnace isn’t operating efficiently. When your system works harder to produce the same amount of heat, it consumes more energy, costing you more each month.
Even if your furnace appears to be working fine, it’s always smart to schedule HVAC maintenance right before you start regularly using it. This proactive approach allows an HVAC contractor to catch potential issues early, preventing costly emergency repairs later in the season.
Pre-Winter Services HVAC Contractors and Technicians Perform
A qualified HVAC technician performs a variety of services to get your furnace ready for the demands of winter. These steps not only improve efficiency but also extend the life of your system and reduce the risk of breakdowns.
- Comprehensive inspections: HVAC contractors and technicians thoroughly examine your furnace for signs of wear, damage, or performance issues. This includes checking the heat exchanger, blower assembly, and ignition system.
- Safety checks: Your furnace should heat your home without posing safety risks. Technicians test for gas leaks, verify carbon monoxide detectors are functioning, and confirm that ventilation systems are clear and working correctly.
- Component cleaning: Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate in critical components, reducing efficiency and causing wear. Cleaning the burners, blower fan, and other internal parts ensures your furnace runs smoothly.
- Parts checks and replacements: During HVAC maintenance, technicians inspect belts, motors, bearings, and other moving parts. If anything is worn or close to failure, they replace it before it can cause a breakdown.
- Thermostat tests: A properly calibrated thermostat is essential for comfort and energy efficiency. The technician will test and adjust your thermostat to ensure it’s reading and controlling temperatures accurately.
- Lubrication of moving parts: Friction between moving parts can cause overheating and wear. Technicians apply the proper lubricants to motors, bearings, and other components to keep everything running efficiently.
- Electrical connections test: Loose or corroded electrical connections can cause shorts, poor performance, or critical system failures. An HVAC contractor will tighten, clean, and test all electrical components for safe, reliable operation.
- System performance check: As a final step, the HVAC technician runs your furnace through a complete heating cycle to confirm it meets performance standards. This includes checking airflow, temperature output, and overall responsiveness.
Why You Should Schedule HVAC Maintenance Before Winter
Waiting until your furnace fails is a costly gamble. Scheduling HVAC maintenance before the cold sets in gives you peace of mind knowing your system has been inspected, cleaned, and fine-tuned by a professional. Not only does this help avoid emergency repairs, but it also ensures you stay comfortable throughout the season while keeping energy costs in check.
If you’ve noticed any warning signs or if it’s been more than a year since your last service, contact an HVAC technician at Service HQ to book your appointment. A proactive approach to furnace care is the best way to ensure your home stays warm, safe, and efficient all winter long.
Call (316) 613-0147 to schedule seasonal HVAC maintenance.