Fall is just around the corner, which means that the weather will turn colder soon. Before you switch your furnace on, have it checked and serviced by a professional. Routine maintenance prevents untimely furnace repairs. Here are a few more reasons to schedule a checkup in advance of the winter season.

Why Schedule Preventive Furnace Maintenance?

1. Lower Your Energy Bills

Nearly half a home’s energy bill goes to heating and cooling, and a leading cause of higher energy costs is an inefficient furnace. Fortunately, you can keep your furnace operating efficiently by scheduling routine upkeep every year. A service professional will change air filters to ensure unobstructed airflow, thereby reducing the strain on your furnace and its motor. They’ll also clean and remove clogs or obstructions in the vents, flue pipes, and chimney, which also make furnaces run less efficiently. Because clean furnaces consume less energy, you'll save money.

2. Prevent Costly Repairs

The primary reason for many furnace repairs is skipping routine maintenance. Most operational issues start small and eventually worsen, causing you to spend more on repairs in the long run. Preventive maintenance pays for itself through cost savings on energy consumption and emergency repairs. A licensed HVAC contractor will look for and replace faulty parts to ensure that your furnace is operating at peak performance.  

3. Avoid Hazards

Aside from saving costs, another benefit of preventive care is hazard prevention. Some furnaces rely on natural gas or propane to provide heat. If you have a gas furnace, a technician will ensure there are no leaks that may start a fire. They’ll also check the flue and vents as well as the heat exchanger for signs of damage. Even a small crack puts you at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. A service professional will inspect your detectors, too, and change the batteries as needed.

4. Prolong Its Life Span

A yearly tuneup and inspection of your heating equipment will safeguard you from unexpected furnace repairs in the middle of a cold day. In keeping repairs at bay and maintenance on schedule, you’ll extend the life expectancy of your HVAC system. A licensed technician will perform a thorough inspection of your furnace and identify parts that need repair or replacement. They’ll also test and adjust settings to keep your system running more efficiently than before.

This fall, schedule maintenance for your furnace with the licensed professionals at B&B Plumbing & Heating in Oxford, OH. Since 1985, they’ve provided a full range of HVAC services, including furnace repair and air conditioner service, to homes and businesses across southwestern Ohio and nearby areas. Call (513) 523-4010 for a free estimate, or visit their website to learn more about the company.