Is A Furnace Inspection Really That Important?

Now that the weather is getting cooler, you might have noticed heating and cooling companies are advertising furnace check and tune ups. One of the questions we are asked by our inquiring customers, and folks at picnics, is "Are these check ups necessary?"

The answer is: ABSOLUTELY!!

Just like your vehicle, your furnace needs maintenance. Without proper maintenance, you are risking a malfunction with your heating system at an inconvenient time. Have you had your furnace quit working in the middle of the night on the weekend? How about during the holidays? If you have, you know about "after hour" and "emergency" service rates, which can be high.

So, what is done during these "check and tune ups"?

A number of things, actually. Every heating and cooling company is different, but there are basic things that should be checked. If your service technician is checking things on this list, they have earned every dollar of the service, which is usually between $80-$150 annually (check out our $49 inspection special!)

• Vent system - This should be checked for leaks and/or blockages
• Combustion gases - These should be analyzed to unit specifications
• Blower door - The door should be checked to make sure there is a tight seal at the furnace
• Fresh air intake and louvers - These should be checked for blockages
• Heat exchanger - Needs to be checked for rust and corrosion
• Burners - They need to be checked for proper ignition burner flame and flame sensing
• Drainage lines - These need to be checked for blockage and leaking
• Thermostats - Their operation, wiring and calibration need to be checked
• Blower wheel - This needs to be checked for debris
• Amps - Preforming an amp draw test will make sure of the correct amperage
• Wiring - All wires should be checked for corrosion and exposed wires
• Filters - Filters checked and or replaced.

This list seems simple enough, so couldn't a homeowner do it themselves? Sure!! But, only if that homeowner has experience in HVAC. These "check and tune ups" are a little more detailed than simply hooking up a vacuum and sucking out some dust. 

Is the "tune up" worth the money? As professionals, we say of course it is, but it is up to the homeowner. Is spending $49 now to have a "once over" better then paying hundreds in after hours fees, parts and labor? Absolutely. Most of the time the cost of these "tune ups" are barely enough to cover the trip to your home, so if your technician checks even half of the things on this list, he has earned every dollar by giving you piece of mind.