Regular furnace maintenance is key to keeping your system running smoothly, efficiently, and, most importantly—safely. At One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, we recommend scheduling a fall furnace maintenance check to get ready for the winter months ahead. Furnace maintenance involves a thorough inspection, cleaning, and a series of safety checks, all of which help extend the life of your furnace and ensure it’s running at its best. Plus, staying on top of maintenance can help maintain your manufacturer’s warranty.

Why Furnace Maintenance Matters

Furnace maintenance isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about safety and efficiency. Regular maintenance can help catch small issues before they turn into big problems, preventing unexpected breakdowns. It also ensures your furnace is running as efficiently as possible, which can reduce your energy bills. Plus, routine maintenance improves indoor air quality, so your family can breathe easier and avoid any wintertime respiratory discomfort. Most importantly, it helps prevent dangerous carbon monoxide leaks and fire hazards that can arise when maintenance is neglected.

Filter Cleaning or Changes

One of the easiest—and most important—tasks you can do as a homeowner is cleaning or changing your furnace filter. Filters trap dust, allergens, and debris, helping to keep your indoor air clean. Clogged filters can block airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder to heat your home, which could lead to higher energy bills. In some cases, dirty filters can even cause your system to overheat, creating a fire hazard.

Replace the Filter

Most furnace filters last about 90 days, but this can vary depending on the type of filter you have. Some high-efficiency filters can last up to six months, but it's always a good idea to check them regularly. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning or replacing.

Use the Correct Filter

Using the right filter is essential for your furnace to work properly. Make sure you choose a filter that fits your furnace's specifications. While HEPA filters offer great air filtration, they can sometimes restrict airflow, so it’s important to confirm compatibility with your system. If you need help choosing the right filter, our team at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® is here to assist you.

Professional Furnace Inspection and Tune-Up

While you can take care of some basic tasks, an annual furnace inspection and tune-up by a professional technician is essential for keeping your furnace running safely and efficiently. During a tune-up, your technician will inspect and clean various components, adjust settings, and check for any safety or performance issues.

Thermostat Inspection and Calibration

Your thermostat plays a big role in maintaining your home's comfort and energy efficiency. It controls the temperature and ensures that your furnace isn’t running unnecessarily. Our technicians will test your thermostat to make sure it’s reading the correct temperature and calibrate it if necessary to avoid any temperature fluctuations.

Electrical Component Inspections

Over time, electrical connections in your furnace can loosen or become damaged. This can happen due to regular wear and tear—or even pests like rodents. If left unchecked, loose or damaged electrical components can lead to electrical fires or cause your furnace to operate inefficiently. Our technicians will inspect these components and tighten or replace anything that’s not working properly.

Testing Safety and Performance

Safety and performance checks are critical for preventing issues down the road. Using specialized tools, your technician will test various furnace components, including:

Gas Pressure Readings

Gas pressure that’s too high can lead to overheating and potential fire risks. If the pressure is too low, your furnace won’t heat effectively. We use a manometer to check the pressure and adjust it if necessary.

Heat Exchanger Inspection

The heat exchanger transfers heat from the combustion chamber to the air that circulates through your home. If it becomes cracked or corroded, it could release dangerous carbon monoxide into your home. Our technicians will carefully inspect the heat exchanger for any damage.

Inspect and Clean the Flame Sensor

A dirty flame sensor can cause your furnace to cycle on and off too frequently, leading to wasted energy and wear on your system. We’ll clean the sensor to ensure it's working properly.

Test the Ignitor

If the ignitor is damaged or worn out, your furnace won’t start heating properly. We’ll inspect and test the ignitor to make sure it’s in good shape.

Gas Leak Detection

Gas leaks can be dangerous, so we check for them during every maintenance visit. We use special detectors and listen for any hissing sounds that could indicate a leak.

Testing Safety Controls

Your furnace has built-in safety features to protect against overheating and gas leaks. We’ll test these safety controls to make sure they’re functioning as they should, including the limit switch, pressure switch, and flame roll-out switch.

Lubricating Moving Parts

Friction is one of the leading causes of furnace failure, so keeping the moving parts lubricated is a simple yet essential step in prolonging your furnace’s lifespan. Lubricating parts like motors and bearings reduce wear and tear, helping your furnace run more smoothly and efficiently.

Ductwork Inspection

Ductwork is responsible for distributing heated air throughout your home, but leaks and blockages can reduce airflow, make your furnace work harder, and lead to higher energy costs. We recommend professional duct cleaning every three to five years to remove dust and debris that can build up over time. At One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, we also offer ductwork installation, repair, and sealing services to keep your system running optimally.

Monitor Your Furnace's Performance

In addition to regular professional maintenance, it’s important to keep an eye on your furnace’s performance throughout the season. Early detection of any issues can help prevent a breakdown when you need heat the most.

Unusual Noises

Pay attention to any changes in the sounds your furnace makes. Rattling, banging, or squealing sounds may signal a malfunction or worn-out component. If your system becomes louder than usual, give us a call!

Increased Energy Costs

If you notice your energy bills rising without an increase in furnace usage, your furnace may be running less efficiently. We recommend monitoring your energy costs through the season and scheduling a maintenance check if things seem off.

Inconsistent Heating

If some rooms feel colder than others, you could have an issue with your ductwork or blower. Let us take a look during a maintenance visit to ensure everything’s working properly.

Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors

If your furnace uses fuel, it’s essential to have carbon monoxide detectors in your home. This odorless, colorless gas can be deadly, so make sure your detectors are installed near sleeping areas and on every floor of your home. Test the detectors regularly and replace the batteries as needed.

Schedule Professional Furnace Maintenance

While checking the filter and keeping an eye on your furnace’s performance are great steps, most of the maintenance tasks are best left to the professionals. At One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, we offer comprehensive maintenance plans, repairs, and installations for all your HVAC needs. Whether you need help with ductwork, indoor air quality, or an emergency repair, we’ve got you covered. We offer a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee on all our services, and flexible financing options are available on approved credit if it’s time for a new furnace. If you're due for a furnace check-up or need any help, give our friendly HVAC team at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® a call today! We're here to keep your home warm and safe all season long.