HVAC professionals provide all the services your furnace could ever need. But, what exactly is involved when a contractor offers a furnace tune-up? HVAC technicians have an involved checklist of tasks to perform during a furnace tune-up. Here's an introduction to what furnace tune-ups entail and when you might need one.

What's Included in a Furnace Tune-Up?

1. Cleaning

Dust is the hidden enemy of any HVAC system. A coating of dust on the inside of your AC can cause it to overheat and even poses a risk of fire. Cleaning is always a critical part of furnace maintenance service.

Technicians use commercial vacuums to thoroughly remove dust from both the exterior and interior of your central furnace assembly. Secondary locations where dust can accumulate are cleaned if necessary, such as vent registers and ducts.

2. Mechanical Inspection

Once dust buildup is dealt with, your furnace inspector will focus on the individual mechanical components inside your furnace. Common tasks include inspecting the heat exchanger for leaks, lubricating blower motor bearings, checking the furnace fan belt tension, and examining the burners for corrosion or clogs.

3. Testing

Safety testing is the third category of services included in a furnace tune-up. If your technician suspects that the burners or heat exchanger may be damaged, they can use a carbon monoxide detector to check for gas leaks. Electrical issues, such as short cycling, may prompt your technician to test the control board and other components with a voltmeter.

When Do You Need a Furnace Tune-Up?

1. You Notice Problems With Your Furnace

Scheduling a furnace tune-up right away is always the best response to unexpected furnace issues. If your furnace struggles to keep your entire home warm, it may be suffering from mechanical wear and tear that's hampering its efficiency. You should also keep watch for rising energy bills, uncomfortable indoor humidity levels, and unusual sounds while your furnace is running.

2. You Haven't Had a Furnace Service in Over a Year

Most HVAC professionals recommend yearly furnace tune-ups, even if your furnace seems to be running fine. Sticking to a regular schedule of professional furnace maintenance helps you resolve problems quickly before they become more serious and more costly to repair. Yearly tune-ups also minimize the chances of gas leaks, fire hazards, and other furnace issues that could pose a safety risk in your home.

Every furnace needs regular tune-ups to continue operating efficiently and keep your home comfortable. Consider setting up an annual furnace maintenance plan with a local HVAC contractor today.

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