What You Can Expect From a Professional Furnace Inspection
Autumn weather has descended upon the greater Cincinnati area, and a furnace evaluation should be at the top of your fall home maintenance checklist.
Annual preventive maintenance is essential for keeping your system operating safely and efficiently during the winter, and it can help lower utility costs while maintaining a high level of comfort.
While tune-up tasks may vary among different contractors, your qualified technician should include these essential checkpoints in your evaluation:
- Lubricate the moving parts of your system to reduce friction.
- Check the gas pressure and burner combustion to ensure they meet system specifications.
- Measure the current and voltage on the motor for efficiency.
- Clean the blower assembly and confirm proper airflow.
- Clean the heat exchanger and inspect it for cracks and corrosion.
- Inspect the terminals and wiring for corrosion, and apply a nonconductive coating if it’s needed.
- Test for dangerous carbon monoxide leaks.
- Inspect the ventilation system to ensure proper venting of gases.
- Inspect ductwork for loose joints, and seal with mastic duct sealant.
- Check your thermostat for accuracy.
- Tighten electrical and gas connections.
- Test the system controls to ensure your furnace cycles properly.
There are several things you should do yourself before you turn on your furnace this fall. These tasks will help ensure the safety of your family and the efficiency of your furnace.
- Stock up on high-quality air filters. Check your air filter every month, and when dirt and debris are visible, replace it with a clean one. A clean filter ensures optimum airflow, prevents dust from entering your system and improves your indoor air quality.
- Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans to pull warm air up and out to evenly distribute it throughout your rooms, keeping you more comfortable at lower thermostat settings.
- Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure one of each is installed on every floor in your home, with one close to your main sleeping area.
To schedule your fall furnace evaluation with one of our qualified technicians in the greater Cincinnati area, please feel free to contact us at Apollo Home Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.
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