Your furnace is one of the most important devices in your home. The thought of it breaking down in the middle of winter sends shivers down any homeowner’s spine. So what should you do about maintenance and furnace repair? Read on for answers to five frequently asked questions about furnace maintenance.                

A Guide to Furnace Repair and Maintenance

1. Should I Have My Furnace Serviced Regularly?

Furnace maintenance should happen annually. Bring in a furnace repair professional to inspect your unit and make any necessary repairs. This will not only keep your warranty intact (if you have a new furnace) but will maintain your furnace’s efficiency, which will lower your operating costs over time.

2. Should I Try to Make Repairs Myself?

Furnace installation and repair work requires advanced technical training, knowledge, and skills to ensure safe and accurate work. If you don’t have this particular skill set, it’s best to leave it to licensed heating and cooling professionals.

3. How Long Do Repairs Take?

Replacing an old furnace typically takes about one day, provided your existing ductwork is in good condition. If the new unit requires adjustments to your previous system, the job could take up to three or four days. Smaller repairs such as replacing the ignitor or flame sensor usually take less than a day. If you try to make these repairs yourself, these completion times could be significantly longer.  

4. How Much Do Furnace Repairs Cost?

According to Home Advisor, the cost to install a furnace ranges from $670 to $2,000 for electric units, $1,200-$2,400 for gas units, and $1,800-$5,800 for oil units. Replacing the ignitor or flame sensor runs anywhere from $300 to $500, while simpler repairs, such as replacing a dirty filter, typically cost under $150. Check the warranty to see what parts are covered. Keep in mind that standard warranties typically don’t include labor.

5. What Would Happen If I Put Off Repairs?

If you don’t address furnace repairs right away, your unit runs a higher risk of breaking down and leaving you in the cold. Left unchecked, old or damaged furnace parts may create a dangerous carbon monoxide leak. Putting off maintenance can also result in costly repairs later. A small problem that goes unchecked can quickly snowball into a much larger, more expensive repair. An inefficiently running furnace can also lead to higher heating bills.

 

When your furnace needs to be replaced or repaired, trust the expert technicians at Inman Heating & Cooling in Columbia, IL, to get the job done right. This family-owned business provides 24-hour emergency services to the Illinois communities of Columbia, Belleville, Collinsville, O'Fallon, Edwardsville, and Glen Carbon. In addition to furnace installation and maintenance, they offer air conditioning installation and repair, radiant heat, and boiler maintenance services. For more information or to schedule a free estimate, visit their website or call (618) 281-5355.