The cost of a maintenance plan ranges from $200 to $400 annually. Most maintenance plans include 2 HVAC tune-ups per year (one for your AC and one for your heating system) and benefits such as discounts on repairs that are exclusive to maintenance plan customers.
Should you do annual furnace maintenance?
Before chilly autumn nights set in, you need to make an appointment for your annual furnace maintenance . Without this yearly cleaning and inspection, a system can wear itself out quickly, pump deadly carbon monoxide into your home, or simply stop working.
What does furnace maintenance include?
Inspecting the thermostat and calibrating it as needed. Lubricating all moving parts in the heating system. Checking the air filter, cleaning it, and replacing it as needed. Checking and testing the system's safety controls and startup cycle.
How often should a furnace be maintenance?
A gas furnace should be serviced at least once a year , preferably, though, in both the spring and the fall. Annual maintenance, including a thorough examination and cleaning of the parts that commonly malfunction, like the air filter, the fan, the pilot light, and the heat exchanger, can usually prevent these problems.
Can I do furnace maintenance myself?
DIY maintenance will save you from needing a new furnace . To fix your furnace, first flip the electrical power furnace switch to “Off.” Remove the combustion chamber door by lifting up and pulling it out, and remove the burner cover (if you have one). It's usually held in place by two screws.
Does your furnace really need a yearly inspection?
Probably not, but it's recommended . The best analogy is going to the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning; probably not necessary, but recommended. Some HVAC contractors recommend getting newer furnaces checked every other year, but once they're more than 10 years old, have them checked annually.
What happens if you don't service your furnace?
When you don't maintain your furnace, it doesn't take long for the air filter to become completely clogged with dust, debris and even mold . Once the air filter can no longer keep particles out, your furnace and your ducts become coated with these nasty airborne particles.
Is it necessary to have furnace checked every year?
Your furnace needs to be checked at least once every year to ensure that it is in proper functioning condition . In fact, furnace manufacturers themselves recommend annual inspections as well as maintenance by a technician. In addition, their warranty terms are clear about damage that is caused by improper maintenance.
How often should you clean furnace ducts?
Experts advise having your air ducts cleaned every 2 to 3 years to prevent many maintenance and health problems before they start. However, homes with pets or children with allergies should have their air ducts professionally cleaned more frequently than the recommended average.
What happens during furnace tune up?
During a typical tune-up, a technician will inspect parts for common issues, test the overall function of the unit, and clean spots that are prone to an accumulation of dust and grime . Often, this fairly quick appointment helps keep a furnace running at maximum efficiency all season long.
How often should you change your furnace filter?
In general, this is how often changing furnace filters needs to be done: For 1- to 2-inch filters, replace them every 1 to 3 months . For 3- to 4-inch filters, replace them every 6 to 9 months. For 5- to 6-inch filters, replace them every 9 to 12 months.
Why furnace maintenance is important?
Furnace maintenance makes sure your HVAC system is running as efficiently as possible . During your technician's visit, they are inspecting and cleaning the components of your HVAC system. When the parts of the furnace are properly inspected and cleaned, they help your furnace run more efficiently.
How should I maintain my furnace?
- Clean or replace your filter. ...
- Make sure blower motor is functioning correctly. ...
- Reduce home's heating load. ...
- Make sure all household vents are free. ...
- For gas furnaces, verify the exhaust flue to the outside is clear. ...
- Remove all flammable objects from around your furnace.
How do I clean my furnace?
- Turn the electricity to the furnace off. ...
- Replace the filter. ...
- Vacuum the inside of the furnace. ...
- Inspect the wires and belts. ...
- Clean all heat registers. ...
- Clean up and turn the power on. ...
- Turn off the power and gas to the furnace.
How do I know if my furnace needs cleaning?
- You're Struggling to Get and Keep the Temperature You Want. Given that your furnace's entire job is to warm your home, it's frustrating when that isn't happening. ...
- Strange Odors from the Furnace. ...
- Yellow or Orange Flame. ...
- Strange Noises from the Furnace. ...
- Reduced Indoor Air Quality.
What happens if you don't clean your oil burner?
And neglecting to clean your oil furnace can lead to significant deaths, injuries and property losses . Spring or summer is the best time to have your oil chimney cleaned. During the winter, your oil-fired furnace can run for long cycles, which can produce soot that may adhere to the sides of your chimney.
How long does a furnace last?
THE AVERAGE FURNACE LIFESPAN
A well-maintained furnace can last at least 15 to 20 years , but completing annual maintenance and being diligent with repairs can extend its life even longer.
