As we approach the midway point of October, we highly encourage all Framingham, MA area residents to get their heating systems tuned up. You understand the benefits of changing the oil in your vehicle and getting it regularly serviced, right? Ensuring the components of your heating system are working correctly is of equal significance. Ignoring heating maintenance can result in expensive, or even deadly, consequences.
If you have a gas furnace, your home is being heated by the burning of natural gas or propane. The very fact that the process involves a flame and a combustible material should illustrate the importance of keeping your furnace maintained. Not only will heating maintenance ensure your furnace or boiler is ready for the colder temperatures, but it will also help you avoid common heating problems that range from costly to dangerous.
Heating Problem #1: Premature Heating System Breakdowns
Getting your furnace or boiler tuned-up each year keeps it running in peak condition, saving you money by avoiding costly repairs. In fact, getting an annual heating tune-up not only prevents heating repairs, but can also extend the life of your furnace.
In general, we have found that a regularly maintained furnace or boiler will require fewer repairs and last 2-3 years longer than one that did not have annual tune-ups because heating tune-ups catch small problems before they turn into big repairs.
Heating Problem #2: High Energy Bills
In addition to saving you time, frustration and money by preventing costly breakdowns, annual heating tune-ups can also lower your energy bills. During the tune-up your technician will clean internal components like the heat exchanger and burner assembly, which increases your boiler or furnace’s energy efficiency.
Another important component of an efficient heating system is proper airflow. Regular heating tune-ups keep your energy bills low by ensuring proper airflow to your furnace.
Some other energy-saving heating tips include:
- Replace your air filter regularly – dirty filters restrict airflow to your system
- Ensure the area around your boiler or furnace is clear of things that can obstruct its airflow
- Get a programmable thermostat, which can decrease your energy bills by setting the temperature up when you are away
Tips and Insights: Why Is My Furnace Making a Banging Noise?
Heating Problem #3: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is a deadly odorless and colorless gas that is a natural byproduct of combustion. It is even more dangerous because it is not detectable by any of your five senses.
Furnaces and boilers that are not regularly maintained are more likely to release greater amounts of carbon monoxide as a result of incomplete combustion. During a heating tune-up, your technician will inspect your furnace or boiler to make sure it is operating safely, as designed, by checking for the following:
- Cracks in the combustion chamber
- Insufficient airflow
- Incorrect gas pressure
- Improper ventilation
- Malfunctioning safety devices
Heating Problem #4: Void Manufacturer’s Warranty
While this isn’t specifically a “heating problem” it can certainly amount to one. Manufacturers recognize the importance of regular heating system maintenance, as well. If you do not have your furnace or boiler regularly maintained by a licensed professional, it might void the manufacturer’s warranty. That means if your furnace breaks down and it did not receive regular maintenance by a licensed professional, you may be responsible for the entire heating repair or heating replacement.
Heating Maintenance Pros in Framingham, MA & Beyond!
Regular maintenance is imperative to a well-functioning heating system. An annual tune-up by an HVAC professional ensures efficient heating, lower energy bills and increased system lifespan while also reducing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. You can learn some other ways to get your home winter-ready by reading out “How to Prepare Your Massachusetts Home For Winter” blog post, too!
Before the freezing temperatures arrive in the Framingham and Douglas area, get your furnace or boiler ready – schedule a tune-up online today.