As we approach the coldest months of the year, homeowners want to be confident that their furnace will keep their home warm and toasty during frigid nights and mornings. But for your unit to operate at peak levels all season long, some maintenance is required. Here are a few frequently asked questions about furnace maintenance. 

Answers About Furnace Maintenance 

Do I Need to Change My Filter? 

Filters should be changed annually, and homeowners can often perform this task on their own. If you own a pet or have family members with allergies, the filter should be changed at least twice a year. Dirty filters can negatively affect both the unit's efficiency and the air quality in the home.

When and How Often Should I Get Professional Maintenance? 

Experts suggest that homeowners get professional maintenance for their furnaces at least once a year, depending on the appliance's usage levels. The best time to have regular maintenance work done is during the fall, a few weeks before the unit will be turned on for the season and enter its high-usage phase of the year. 

What Is Done During a Professional Maintenance Appointment? 

HVAC professionals carry out a long list of tasks when performing maintenance work on furnaces. These include checking heat exchangers and ductwork, cleaning blower wheels, blower motors, intake grilles, and other parts, testing the appliance's electrical connections, and monitoring the startup cycle to make sure the furnace is running at peak efficiency. 

What Is the Primary Benefit of Furnace Maintenance?

While regular maintenance will almost certainly enhance the performance of your unit, an even more significant benefit is how the appliance's longevity is improved by regular maintenance. Annual professional maintenance can extend the life of your heating unit by years, cutting down on the need for costly repairs and full unit replacement. 

For half a century, residents and businesses have relied on Inman Heating & Cooling, in Columbus, IL, for a wide variety of HVAC services. The highly experienced team of technicians at Inman Heating & Cooling handles furnace installation and repair and specializes in boilers, water heaters, and humidifiers. Visit the HVAC pros' website to learn more about how they can make your winter more comfortable, or call directly at (618) 281-5355.