What to Expect From Expert Furnace Tune Up Services
The average furnace has many moving parts that need to be properly oiled and inspected on a regular basis. If the furnace is neglected, these parts will eventually break down and need to be replaced. Regular maintenance will extend the life of the furnace and improve its energy efficiency, thus reducing utility bills and helping the homeowner maintain a healthy indoor environment.
During the tune up process, the qualified HVAC technician will clean all the furnace components and replace or lubricate those that need it. They will also test the system controls, perform a combustion efficiency test and check the venting to make sure there are no air leaks. Additionally, they will calibrate the thermostat and check for carbon monoxide leaks as well.
A basic tune up usually costs between $50 and $250. The cost may be higher for older systems that need more attention, and the price will increase depending on how long it has been since the system was last serviced. Homeowners who have newer furnaces that are still under warranty should contact the manufacturer to see if a tune up is required to keep their warranty coverage. Some warranties include free part replacement, but not always the labor associated with those parts. Homeowners should also review their homeowners insurance policy to determine if annual furnace maintenance is covered by their home insurance company.
When hiring a expert furnace tune up services tune up, it is important to find out how much they charge for each service. A good HVAC service provider will be honest and upfront about their charges, including any additional fees that may apply. They should also have certifications and experience working with a variety of furnace models. It is also recommended that the service provider provide an estimate prior to beginning work, and they should be willing to answer any questions that the homeowner has.
If a homeowner notices a sudden rise in their heating bills, it is likely that the furnace is working harder than normal to compensate for faulty parts. A qualified HVAC technician will be able to diagnose this problem quickly and fix it to save the homeowner money. Other common problems that may need professional repair include a tripped circuit breaker, a broken pilot light or a dirty air filter that is restricting the flow of air and causing inefficient operation.
A furnace that is not regularly maintained can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. This gas is odorless and colorless, and it is often undetected until a carbon monoxide detector goes off in the home. A professional will be able to test the pilot light and make sure it is burning fuel completely. If it is not, the technician can adjust the blower motor and ignitor to prevent excessive carbon monoxide production.