As the winter months approach, you may be thinking about the high cost of the energy you use to heat your home. It’s easy to cut corners by skipping services like HVAC maintenance as you think about finances for holiday celebrations and other needs. However, failing to schedule a furnace inspection could prove to be more costly later on. Here are three important reasons to schedule this service promptly.
Safety
A combustion appliance like a furnace has the capability of introducing carbon monoxide emissions into your home. It is important that venting equipment is inspected and that the safety of your entire system is validated by a trained professional. An HVAC technician is trained to identify issues that could pose a risk to your family. He can also make recommendations about the latest options in carbon monoxide alarms as he explains important preventive strategies for the winter months. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends annual inspections by trained professionals at the beginning of the heating season.
Efficiency
HVAC maintenance plays an important role in maximizing the efficiency of your furnace for the season. Regular use can result in various types of wear and tear. Heat exchangers and igniters can become dirty. Moving parts can wear out or break. Electronic components can fail. By allowing your HVAC technician the opportunity to inspect and fine-tune your equipment, you’re ensuring that fuel will be burned as efficiently as possible and that household comfort levels will be maintained more consistently.
Additional measures may be recommended based on your technician’s findings. For example, a test of airflow may indicate the presence of leaks or a need for balancing of your system. Efficient delivery can be impacted by the air loss that is possible through leaky ducts. Up to 40 percent of your heating energy can be lost to crawl spaces and other areas if such problems aren’t rectified. Your technician will make note of such problems if they’re observed, discussing the possible solutions as needed.
Continuity of Service
Regular HVAC maintenance can extend the life of heating equipment, allowing you to get the maximum use from your system. Additionally, regular inspections can minimize the potential for emergency heating repairs during the winter. A system malfunction or complete failure can be costly and inconvenient, and ignoring your system until something goes wrong can create much more stress on your winter budget. Additionally, consistent communication with your HVAC technician about the condition of your furnace can provide an idea of the expected life of the equipment, helping you to plan for the future need to replace it.
It’s helpful to note that energy experts indicate that the replacement of a furnace that is more than 15 years old can provide important energy savings while allowing you to also enjoy modern improvements available in new systems. Our technicians can make recommendations if you’re wondering about the possibility of a new furnace this year. An inspection may help you in making that decision, and we are available to assist before the cold weather sets in. Contact the professionals at Ray’s Heating & Air Conditioning if you’re looking for expertise in the Schaumburg, Illinois, and the surrounding areas.
