Yearly HVAC Maintenance Checklist
Now that the air turns chilly, you know it’s time to winterize your residence for the cooler months ahead. Your heating system is critical to maintaining a cozy, warm atmosphere. A well-maintained furnace provides the comfort you desire while using a smaller amount of energy. Scheduled inspections also make your system less likely to break down and help it last years longer. These are just a few examples of how annual HVAC maintenance can save you time, money and hassle. Here’s what needs to be on your checklist before winter appears.
Set Up HVAC Maintenance
To keep your furnace in peak condition, consider arranging furnace maintenance every year. The best time to do this is in the fall before contractors become bombarded with calls during the busy cold months. Having said that, if you miss that window on the calendar, it’s still advantageous to get furnace maintenance no matter what the season.
Your technician’s HVAC maintenance to-do list should include the following:
- Look at the thermostat settings: We all desire an efficient HVAC system, and this starts with your thermostat. During a maintenance appointment, the professional ensures your thermostat is reading the temperature correctly and engaging your furnace at the proper times.
- Tighten the electrical connections: Ensuring that all electrical connections are working correctly is crucial. Loose wires can create a higher electricity draw, potentially decreasing the life of your system’s components and causing a safety risk.
- Measure the motor voltage and current: This step allows a contractor to find out if the motor is operating within the designated parameters, helping to protect against motor failure and unnecessary energy consumption.
- Lubricate moving elements: Friction reduces energy efficiency. Your technician lubricates all moving parts to minimize resistance, reduce wear and tear, and lower your energy bills.
- Examine the condensate drain: air conditioning units, condensing furnaces and whole-house humidifiers send condensate down a drain as they operate. This line must be clear of obstructions to prevent water accumulation and potential water damage. Looking over the drain provides peace of mind that your utility closet won’t be damaged.
- Evaluate the system controls: This involves making sure the furnace starts, runs and powers off according to the manufacturer’s specifications, ensuring safety and security.
- Scrutinize the ignition burner assembly: This component is responsible for igniting the burner. A technician inspects the assembly to make sure it’s clean and operating correctly.
- Study the heat exchanger: The heat exchanger transfers heating from the fuel to your indoor air. A crack could release carbon monoxide into your home, so careful examination is an essential step on the HVAC maintenance appointment.
- Clean the burners: In time, burners can get covered in dust and debris that impedes performance. A thorough cleaning assures they operate efficiently and safely.
- Look for gas leaks: Searching for leaks is crucial with gas heating systems. A leak can be hazardous and should be addressed straight away.
- Assess the gas pressure: Ideal gas pressure is essential for optimal furnace function. Pressure that’s too low or too high can upset system efficiency and home comfort.
Routine Furnace Maintenance to Do at Home
Here’s how to keep your furnace running smoothly between professional HVAC maintenance visits:
- Replace the air filter: A dirty filter can put stress on your home’s HVAC equipment. Check the filter every 30 days and change it when it appears dirty to promote efficiency and extend your system’s life span.
- Look at your thermostat settings: The Department of Energy (DOE) suggests setting your thermostat between 68 and 70 degrees when you’re in your residence and awake in the winter. Then, set the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees while you’re away all day or sleeping at night to save up to 10% on your heating spending.
- Clean the air registers: Dust covering your registers can hinder airflow, so vacuum the grilles on a regular basis to maintain good air quality. Then, make sure furniture, rugs and curtains don’t cover your return or supply vents to ensure appropriate system balance.
- Reverse the ceiling fan: Set your ceiling fans to spin clockwise during the cooler months to blow warm air down from the ceiling closer to the floor.
- Seal drafts: Check for leaky windows and doors. If you sense drafts, seal them with caulk and weatherstripping to keep the cold from getting in your home and reduce your furnace’s workload.
- Analyze your attic insulation level: An under-insulated attic leads to heat loss. Add insulation if it’s needed to keep heat in the home and reduce your energy costs.
Call A1 Chesney Service Experts for HVAC Maintenance in Calgary
A1 Chesney Service Experts is happy to take care of your home HVAC needs. We give you peace of mind with our comprehensive HVAC inspections, speedy solutions and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Our certified technicians are known for the way they go above and beyond. You can rely on A1 Chesney Service Experts to make a meaningful difference in your comfort and residential relaxation this winter with furnace maintenance in A1 Chesney Service Experts. Phone 587-315-5271 today for help getting your home ready for the cold in Calgary.