Schedule Heater Maintenance if It Has Been Forgotten This Year

It's Still Not Too Late for Heater Maintenance

With low temperatures this winter, the heater will be working overtime to keep the home warm. If heater maintenance is forgotten, it can cause inefficiencies, comfort issues, and wear and tear. Luckily, it isn’t too late to schedule maintenance for the heater. Homeowners can get the benefits of maintenance and care for their heaters by calling a professional for heating maintenance. This post will discuss heater maintenance, its benefits, and how often it should be done. 

Reasons to Maintain the Heater 

Homeowners know that periodic investments in their homes cost a little upfront but can pay dividends down the road. Something as simple as heating maintenance can offer a variety of benefits. Some of the reasons not to neglect heater maintenance are: 

• Fewer Repairs: A heater failing in the winter can be a disaster and lead to major discomfort. Heating maintenance allows professionals to help prevent issues, reduce the risk of future repairs, and find and fix any potential problems before they cause a failure or breakdown, reducing repair costs. 
• Cheaper Utility Bills: Along with saving on repair bills, heating maintenance offers the opportunity for lower heating costs. Heaters that are unmaintained are less efficient, running up monthly costs. Routine maintenance improves efficiency, leading to lower utility bills. 
• Extended Lifespan: Heating equipment that is properly maintained lasts longer than equipment that is neglected, meaning heater replacement won’t be needed as often and preventing the high cost of premature replacement. 

Steps for Heater Maintenance 

When homeowners schedule a professional maintenance visit, a technician will typically perform the following steps:

• Inspect Components: The technician examines the heater’s internal and external components for wear and damage.
• Clean Key Parts: Dust and debris are removed from critical areas such as the burners, blower, and heat exchanger to ensure optimal performance.
• Check Safety Features: Safety systems, including sensors and emergency shutoffs, are tested to confirm they’re functioning properly.
• Lubricate Moving Parts: Any moving parts, such as the motor or fan, are lubricated to reduce friction and wear.
• Replace Air Filters: While professionals may replace furnace filters during the visit, it’s crucial for homeowners to change their air filters regularly between visits to maintain airflow and air quality.

How Often Is Maintenance Needed?

Heating systems should undergo professional maintenance at least once a year, ideally before the start of the heating season. However, it’s never too late to schedule a tune-up, as it can still provide significant benefits even mid-season. On the other hand, air filters should be checked and replaced more frequently. 

One of the easiest ways homeowners can support their heater’s performance is by regularly changing the filters. Dirty filters can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency, increasing strain on the system and potentially leading to premature failure. They also negatively impact air quality and can worsen respiratory issues. Replacing filters every three months or so is essential for maintaining a healthy and efficient system. If there are other factors like indoor pets or people in the home suffering from allergies, more frequent air filter changes may be needed. 

About Honest Abe's Home Services

Honest Abe’s Home Services is a plumbing and HVAC company serving the Osage Beach area. They offer upfront pricing before they start and accurate, high-quality solutions. Call them for heater repair and maintenance services in Osage Beach, MO. 

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