Ideally, you should schedule furnace maintenance in Cincinnati before the start of winter. But it’s never too early to start thinking about it. While your heating system may be the last thing on your mind in relatively mild weather, neglecting maintenance now can result in serious regrets in a few months. We’ll explain why fall is the best time to schedule a furnace tune-up and inspection sooner rather than later.
Fall is the right time to have your furnace checked out. Even if you haven’t turned the heater on yet this season, here are some reasons to schedule maintenance with Wingate now:
Your Furnace Will Be Safer to Use
Being left in the cold can be dangerous enough. However, being without heat is only one potential consequence of skipping furnace maintenance. A neglected heating unit can develop issues that can lead to a fire or carbon monoxide leak. A dirty burner, blocked vent, or cracked heat exchanger can be a disaster waiting to happen. For the safety of your entire family, schedule a maintenance visit before it’s too late.
Utility Bills May Be Reduced
As components wear out or dirt or soot build-up, your furnace may start to work less effectively. A decrease in heating performance will cause it to work harder to maintain set temperatures. Combined with longer running times, this will increase energy consumption, so your utility bills will keep increasing until the problem is resolved. Furnace maintenance can prevent issues that increase energy usage and allows a technician to make adjustments so the unit runs more smoothly.
Costly Repairs Can Be Avoided
It’s much easier to replace a worn part than to deal with the damage it can cause. Furnace maintenance entails cleaning the unit, tightening connections, and lubricating moving parts to reduce wear and tear. A professional will follow a checklist to ensure every detail is covered and any minor issues are resolved. With preventative care, your furnace is less likely to break down and require costly repairs.
The Furnace Will Last Longer
Annual heater maintenance ensures the system runs at peak performance all the time. Therefore, it can extend the system’s life by as much as 50%. Your furnace may not last 10 years without maintenance, but a well-maintained unit can last as long as 20 years.
It’s Easier to Schedule Furnace Maintenance in Cincinnati Earlier
Don’t wait until the first cold night to schedule a maintenance appointment. During the winter rush, you may have to wait until a technician is available. This risks dealing with a furnace breakdown due to hidden issues, or at the very least, paying more in utilities because the system isn’t working as efficiently. There will also be less flexibility in scheduling a day or time. By calling early, you can request service at your convenience and around work, family, and other obligations.
Does the Type of Furnace Matter?
Depending on the type, make, or model, it may have unique maintenance requirements. For example, many HVAC professionals suggest servicing a gas furnace twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring. It has components that are more prone to getting dirty and wearing out. A technician will perform a safety check and clean the air filter, fan, pilot system, and heat exchanger. They may find problems that aren’t causing symptoms or issues, and addressing them early can avoid serious concerns later.
Check the owner’s manual or with the manufacturer for your system’s maintenance requirements.
When Should I Call Before My Furnace Is Due for Maintenance?
There are times you should call for furnace maintenance in Cincinnati sooner. If there’s an unusual smell coming from your furnace, such as a gas odor, your carbon monoxide alarm has gone off, or water is leaking from the unit, call a professional right away. Higher energy bills and difficulty starting the system are also reasons to reach out for help, regardless of when the furnace was last serviced or a maintenance appointment is coming up.
Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up with Wingate Today
Since 1968, our NATE- and EPA-certified technicians have provided high-quality furnace tune-ups and inspections. We specialize in Tempstar, Rheem, and Daikin heating systems but help maintain all makes and models. By joining our VIP Maintenance Program, you’ll receive seasonal maintenance, discounts on repairs and labor, and other benefits at a low monthly price. To learn more or schedule furnace maintenance in Cincinnati, call (513) 902-3134 today