Furnace Maintenance Checklist: 3 Easy Steps For a Tune Up

Being comfortable in the winter largely relies on how well your furnace works. An efficiently running furnace ensures a cozy home and energy bills that aren’t going through the roof.

The best way to ensure your furnace is working well is with regular maintenance. Using our comprehensive furnace maintenance checklist, you can see the steps we will take during a furnace service, and things that you can do to help your heating system out!

I’ve been working with furnaces and heating systems since 2006, but it really started when I was 13, getting to know the family business. Since then, I’ve installed and repaired 1000s of systems, and received several certifications in the field of HVAC technology and operations. All that to say, I feel pretty comfortable servicing and maintaining all different sorts of heating systems, and want to tell you a little more in this article!  

Furnace Maintenance Checklist: Essential Steps for Every Year

Here are a few guides to add to your furnace annual maintenance checklists:

Heating Oil Furnace Maintenance Tips

Cleaning An Oil Furnace Heat Exchanger Maintenance Guide

Bonus AC Guides:

AC Maintenance Checklist For Peak Efficiency

Troubleshooting AC Problems Homeowner’s Guide

Furnace Inspection Checklist: DIY Guide

Before calling in professionals, here are some tasks you can perform yourself to give your furnace a check:

Check Carbon Monoxide Detector

– Ensure the detector is functional and replace batteries if needed. Carbon monoxide is extremely dangerous, and if the alarm sounds, evacuate your home immediately.

Clean Around the Unit

– Keep the furnace area free of debris and other flammable materials. A clean space promotes better airflow and efficiency.

Change the Air Filter

– Regularly check and replace the air filter, especially during heavy usage months. A clean filter promotes efficiency and longevity. We recommend changing your air filter once every 3 months.

Heater Maintenance Checklist For Specific Types Of Systems

Different furnaces require different sorts of service. Not every furnace uses the same fuel source, and a few of them operate a little differently. Luckily we work with many different types of furnaces, and many different brands. Here is a little bit about the main types:

Gas Furnace Maintenance Checklist

We don’t exactly recommend you perform these tasks. Instead, you should have a trained and licensed professional take care of this stuff!

• Inspect the Heat Exchanger: Look for signs of corrosion or damage.
• Clean and Adjust Burner: Ensures efficient combustion.
• Check Gas Pressure: Incorrect pressure can affect efficiency.
• Inspect Flue Pipe: Check for corrosion and ensure it’s properly exhausting gases.

Electric Heater Maintenance Checklist

• Inspect Heating Elements: Ensure they are clean and functioning correctly.
• Check Electrical Connections: Ensure there’s no fraying or damage to wires.
• Verify Thermostat Settings: Ensure they match your comfort levels and energy-saving preferences.

Unit Heater Maintenance Checklist

• Check Fan Blades: Ensure they’re free from debris and dust.
• Inspect Motor and Bearings: Lubricate if necessary.
• Verify Safety Controls: Ensure they function properly.

Furnace Inspection Checklist and Indoor Air Quality

Your furnace doesn’t just heat your home; it plays a role in indoor air quality. The air that comes through your heating system is then pumped throughout your home. If that air is dirty, you are breathing in less-than-ideal quality air. Ensure that:

• Air Filters are Clean: They catch airborne irritants and bacteria, reducing allergens and pollutants
• Humidifier Functions Correctly: Proper humidity levels prevent dry skin and respiratory issues.
• Fresh Air Intake Isn’t Blocked: Prevents stale air and promotes better breathing conditions. Ask your HVAC technician where your fresh air intake is located and make sure it’s not blocked.

FAQs

Here are a couple questions we get often when it comes to heating service, and we figured we’d share our answers!

How much does it cost to check a furnace?

The cost varies based on the system and complexity of the inspection. However, as of my last update, homeowners usually spend between $100 to $350 for a standard furnace maintenance check.

How do I know if my furnace needs service?

Signs your furnace might need service include:

• Unusual noises
• Increased heating bills
• Uneven heating
• Cold air blowing from the unit
• Frequent cycling

If you suspect you need heating system maintenance, don’t put it off. Give us a call at (610) 446-7877 and we will be able to help you get your system ready for the winter months.

How often should a furnace be serviced?

For optimal performance and extended lifespan, a furnace should be serviced at least once a year, ideally before the onset of cold weather.

Furnace Service In Havertown, PA

Your furnace plays a pivotal role in ensuring home comfort during colder months. With the furnace maintenance checklist, furnace inspection checklist, and specific heater maintenance checklists provided, you are well-equipped to maintain and monitor heater maintenance in Broomall, PA.

Call John Cipollone, Inc. at (610) 446-7877 to speak with your trusted heater maintenance in Broomall, PA.