Believe it or not, most HVAC companies actually lose money when performing furnace, air conditioner, and other HVAC equipment tune-ups. However, we value creating a trusting relationship with all of our customers.
There are some companies, though, that will undercut and undersell tune-ups to homeowners. Some companies will offer especially low prices for their furnace maintenance in order to make a quick buck. While you may think you’re saving money while getting the necessary tune-ups, you’re actually just wasting your money.
Annual furnace maintenance is important, but it needs to be done correctly. If technicians cut corners, they’re not adding any value to your system.
The Problem With Cheap Furnace Maintenance
All HVAC equipment, including furnaces, are huge investments. They have high upfront costs and still need to be taken care of every year. If you neglect necessary maintenance, they will cost more money to repair or replace.
So, it’s beneficial to have your furnace worked on at least once a year. But don’t just pick the cheapest service out there; sometimes, unreliable technicians will offer considerably cheap furnace tune-ups as a way to make easy money off of you.
When you hire them, they probably won’t give you a descriptive checklist of what they’re going to complete during the servicing. They’ll may only do a few tasks, like changing the air filters, cleaning the unit, and testing the thermostat.
While these are essential tasks to complete for a furnace tune-up, that’s not nearly all that needs to be done. When hiring technicians to service your heating system, look for some of these HVAC scams:
- Lack of Credentials: If the technician cannot provide credentials, certifications, or proof of licensing, it raises concerns about their qualifications and expertise in handling furnace maintenance.
- Incomplete Inspection: A thorough inspection is crucial during furnace maintenance. If the technician performs a cursory or incomplete check of your system, it indicates a lack of diligence and may compromise the effectiveness of the service.
- Pressure for Immediate Repairs: If the technician insists on immediate repairs without providing a clear explanation or allowing you to seek a second opinion, it raises suspicions about the urgency and necessity of the suggested fixes.
What a Proper Furnace Maintenance Checklist Should Look Like
When a stranger is handling your furnace, it’s completely understandable to want to know exactly what they will be doing to the unit. That’s why our professionals are dedicated to being transparent with all of our services.
A standard furnace tune-up should take roughly an hour and a half to two hours to complete. During this time, technicians will inspect your furnace from top to bottom and ensure that it is in proper working order.
A reliable furnace tune-up checklist includes the following:
- Camera inspection of furnace heat exchanger
- Measure and adjust gas pressure for peak efficiency
- Inspect the vacuum blower compartment
- Test the ignition system for safe and proper operation
- Test safety and control circuits for proper operation
- Test the exhaust system for proper venting
- Measure temperature differences in the supply and return vents
- Inspect and adjust fan belt tension
- Calibrate and level thermostat
- Brush, clean, and vacuum the burners
- Brush, clean, and vacuum the heat exchangers
- Test furnace flame for safe burn operation
- Replace the air filters
- Lubricate all moving parts, per manufacturer’s instructions
- Measure the amperage and voltage of the blower motor
- Tighten and inspect all electrical wiring
- Clean upper and lower combustion vents
- Inspect for combustible material around the furnace
- Test for gas leaks and inspect all gas connections
- Clean furnace exterior
The Importance of Furnace Maintenance
You should have your furnace serviced once a year to ensure efficiency and safety. If you don’t, you may end up spending more money on costly repairs or, worse, replacing the furnace in its entirety.
The benefits of furnace maintenance include:
- Optimal Efficiency: Annual furnace tune-ups ensure that your unit operates at peak efficiency, maximizing its performance and minimizing energy waste.
- Extended Lifespan: Regular maintenance helps extend your furnace’s lifespan by addressing minor problems before they escalate, reducing the likelihood of major breakdowns.
- Improved Safety: These inspections help identify and address potential safety risks, like gas leaks or faulty ignition systems, ensuring a safe and secure environment.
- Lower Energy Bills: A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, resulting in lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills over time.
Consider Joining a Furnace Maintenance Program
If you’re looking to keep your furnace in its best condition while saving money, consider joining an HVAC service membership. These programs offer homeowners several benefits, from early problem detection to lower costs every year. Join our program today, and we’ll make sure your furnace is ready for winter.
We at Home Comfort Experts offer furnace maintenance in Northern Indiana and Southwestern Michigan. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our team of experienced furnace technicians.