Just like any other machine or complicated system, your furnace requires upkeep in order to continue functioning well. Anything involving moving parts does. How frequently this maintenance should be performed is a question worth considering.
Should My Furnace Be Inspected Yearly?
Annual maintenance is highly advised. Many warranties include language stating that the warranty is void if the system does not receive proper maintenance. Whether it is enforceable or not, lack of proper maintenance can throw sand in the gears of any warranty claim you might need to make.
It is also just a good idea to have regular servicing to optimize performance and identify potential problems before they become extremely expensive. Fox Business gives the best comparison:
“The best analogy is going to the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning; probably not necessary, but recommended.”
If you go to your dentist and find a small cavity you can get it taken care of before it gets bad enough that the tooth must be pulled. Likewise annual furnace checkups can identify issues in their infancy when they can be resolved most easily and with minimum financial expenditure.
What Annual Maintenance Should Be Done on a Furnace?
Typically, annual furnace maintenance includes checking various aspects of the system to ensure their proper functioning. Some of the tasks performed include:
- Checking the thermostat
- Checking and cleaning the burner and igniter
- Make any needed adjustments to the gas valve
- Clean and inspect the heat exchanger
- Inspect the flue and ductwork
- Inspect the gas lines
Does My Furnace Need to Be Cleaned Every Year?
Cleaning removes accumulated dust and detritus that can reduce efficiency and impede proper performance. Optimizing performance through annual service prevents not only costlier power bills but also any increased wear and tear on your furnace components that could lead to associated long term costs.
Just like the rest of your home, proper cleaning done on a regular basis prevents buildup of allergens and other airborne pollutants that reduce your Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).
What Happens If You Don’t Service Your Furnace?
The longer your system goes without proper servicing the higher the likelihood of expensive malfunctions. In more extreme cases of neglect this can even lead to the need to replace the entire furnace. It also increases the probability of health hazards including carbon monoxide poisoning and the risk of fires.
Express C.O.D. – Your Neighbors and Maintenance Partners
Regular maintenance can help fend off the need for major repairs by catching any issues early. It is far less expensive than emergency servicing usually costs. Express C.O.D. has been a proud provider of HVAC maintenance to our neighbors for decades, helping them to reduce their power consumption and head off problems before they become critical. Contact us today to schedule a checkup and ask about our C.O.D. oil delivery service when you do.