What Type of Maintenance Does Your Heating System Need?
Maintaining your heating system regularly is important to ensure that it is running properly and efficiently. Most HVAC systems should be serviced annually (or seasonally), although some systems may require more frequent maintenance depending on the manufacturer’s specifications and usage. Additionally, as your system reaches the end of its lifespan, you may find that you have it serviced more often to help extend its lifespan as you prepare for a replacement.
Outside of routine maintenance, we also encourage homeowners to familiarize themselves with the warning signs of a problem. The sooner you recognize that there is an issue, the sooner you can have it fixed, and the less likely you are to suffer a system breakdown.
Signs that your heater needs repair or maintenance service include:
- Strange or bad odors coming from your vents
- Noisy operation or loud banging sounds
- Inconsistent heating or cold spots in your home
- The heater is constantly running without turning off
- The heater is short-cycling (turning off and on in quick succession)
- Your system is not responding to your thermostat, or the thermostat is malfunctioning
Generally speaking, if you think something is off about your heating system, you are likely right. When you notice any of the above issues, it is best to call a professional HVAC technician as soon as possible.
Why Hiring an HVAC Specialist Is Beneficial
When it comes to maintaining your heating system, there are a lot of benefits to working with a professional HVAC company like Premier Indoor Comfort Systems. In particular, scheduling routine professional maintenance with our team can go a long way in extending the lifespan of your system.
During your regular maintenance visit, a professional will inspect and clean all components of the heating system, including filters, motors, and ductwork. Additionally, they will check for worn-out or broken parts that need to be replaced and identify any potential safety issues.
A professional HVAC maintenance technician can also help you:
- Improve your home’s indoor air quality and overall comfort levels
- Identify ways to improve the efficiency of your system and reduce your energy costs
- Catch and repair small problems before they result in a service interruption
- Save time with troubleshooting and repair diagnosis
- Gain peace of mind knowing that your system has been serviced or repaired correctly and safely
- Common Problems Associated with DIY Heater Repairs
Attempting DIY heater repairs can be a time-consuming and even dangerous endeavor. Without proper safety precautions like ground fault circuit interrupters and voltage testers, it’s easy for individuals attempting heater repairs to suffer personal injury or property damage due to electrical hazards. And, if you are working on a gas furnace, the risk of a gas leak or other serious problems is also likely.
Meanwhile, without the proper tools, knowledge, and experience, it is easy to overlook potential issues or make mistakes that can cause further damage. Additionally, DIY repairs frequently are not up to the industry standards of a professional repair technician, which can lead to costly repairs down the road.
In short, it is always best to leave heater maintenance and repairs to the professionals at Premier Indoor Comfort Systems.
What Can a Homeowner Do?
You may now be wondering if there is anything you can do to support your heating system between maintenance visits. And while we do not recommend you work on your heating system yourself, there are a few important tasks a homeowner should incorporate into their routine.
Five things homeowners can do to get the most out of their systems:
- Replace their HVAC filter every three months (or more frequently if you suffer from asthma or allergies, or if you have pets)
- Keep the area around your furnace clear of debris and dirt
- Make sure your vents and registers are open and not blocked by furniture or other objects
- Schedule a system inspection either annually or seasonally, and duct cleaning every three to five years
- Call for repair service any time you have an issue, even if it seems small
If you are struggling with a complex heating system or unsure how to best care for your furnace, give Premier Indoor Comfort Systems a call. Our Canton-based team is standing by to help you no matter what you need.