It’s Not Too Late for Heating Maintenance
Heating maintenance is recommended every year. Because heaters are prone to wear and tear, manufacturers and heater repair contractors encourage customers to do it annually. Generally, heating maintenance is recommended in the fall before the heater is needed in earnest, but even if annual maintenance has been forgotten, there is no time like the present.
Reasons To Maintain the Heater
A heater uses a lot of energy, leading to high bills and expensive replacement when it fails. Given these facts, it is obviously in the homeowner’s best interest to maintain the system efficiency and ensure that it lasts as long as possible to prevent premature replacement.
Luckily, heater maintenance is key to both of these goals. When heaters are maintained annually, efficiency is protected by ensuring good airflow and effective heating. This keeps heating bills as low as possible and adds to the home's comfort.
Likewise, when heating maintenance is done each year, it protects the unit from systemic damage that can shorten the heater’s lifespan. A heater without maintenance is only expected to last about 15 years before it requires serious repairs, verging on replacement.
In comparison, a well-maintained heater will likely last for at least 20 years before small repairs and efficiency losses make it more expedient to replace it. Therefore, heater maintenance is key for homeowners looking to save money and get the most from their heating system.
What Do Professionals Do During Maintenance?
Heating professionals follow a series of steps during maintenance that allow homeowners to attain the benefits listed above. They start by cycling the heater on from the thermostat to check its accuracy and operation. While the system is running, they check the delivery temperatures to ensure hot air is being delivered with good airflow.
If the airflow seems restricted, the technicians may clean the blower and check the ductwork for obstructions or leaks. When the safety panels are removed, the technicians will check the electrical connections and ensure the motors pull safe amperages.
If the unit is a heat pump, they may clean the coils. Regardless of the type, they will ensure the air filter is regularly replaced. Finally, they will lubricate moving parts and inspect any belts for wear and tear.
How Often is Heater Maintenance Needed?
While some heater maintenance programs handle air filter replacement for the homeowner, most contractors rely on the homeowner for this task. In most cases, air filter replacement should happen every three months. If the technician advises more frequent changes, the owner should replace them more often.
Furthermore, routine heater maintenance should be done annually. Doing it earlier allows more time for unplanned repairs if necessary, but the most vital thing is that maintenance be done once per year. Even though the heating season is about halfway through, improving the heater's performance is never too late!
About Morrow Mechanical
Morrow Mechanical offers a Priority Care Club that handles two HVAC tune-ups per year. Owners see a significant drop in necessary repairs as well as a drop in monthly heating bills. Call today for a heating repair in Spring, TX.
