Your furnace provides heat during the cold months, and when it breaks down, it will probably be when you need it most. It’s not just bad luck, though—it’s because no one thinks about heater maintenance during the warm months. The following guide explains what HVAC specialists do during a maintenance check and why your unit needs the attention.

What’s Involved in a Furnace Check?

Specialists verify the unit is working properly and that the airflow is circulating through the home as it should. Maintenance checks are typically performed during fall so that the system doesn’t crash during the coldest days of the year. 

The HVAC technician turns up the temperature in the home and performs a series of tests to see what’s needed to make it through the winter. They'll also remove the front plate to check for corrosion and make sure the wires are connected.

Most modern homes have an HVAC system that joins the heater and air conditioner through the same ductwork. While the AC runs during the summer, excess moisture can seep into the furnace and create rust. This will be on the technician’s checklist as well.

They’ll also check the ventilation system. Supply vents bring warm air into the home while return vents remove the cold air. The vents should be free from blockages, including nearby objects, that can restrict airflow. The technician will use a meter with an attached needle to verify airflow through the ducts. They'll also inspect and change the air filter. 

They also do an electrical test, called an amp-draw, to make sure the right amount of current is drawn from the system. This helps determine if the mechanical parts in the system are working properly.

What Are the Benefits?

A clogged system will work harder to provide the heat selected by the thermostat. The harder it has to work, the higher the energy bill—and the higher the odds of it breaking down.

 A typical heater will last from 10 to 15 years, and these numbers are largely contingent on how often yearly maintenance is performed on the unit. A properly run system with excellent airflow provides cleaner air for the family by limiting dust and other particles that enter into the home. Yearly heater maintenance provides security to the homeowner, giving them peace of mind as well as savings.

If you need a yearly heater maintenance performed in Olive Branch, MS, contact the experts at Gary Duncan Service Company. They provide HVAC services to homeowners throughout northern Mississippi, and they work on gas and electric systems. With over 40 years of experience, you can count on their highly trained team to repair, maintain, or install the HVAC system your home requires. Visit their website to learn more about their heating repair services. To set up an appointment, call (662) 895-2023 today.