Do You Know the Type of Heater You Own?
Knowing what type of heater you have can help you make informed decisions about proper care and maintenance. The noises that one unit makes may be normal, while they could indicate a problem for a different type of unit. If you’re unsure what type of heater you have, we can help identify your heater and give you guidance on the best care and maintenance.
Homeowners have no shortage of options to choose from when selecting the type of heating system for their home. From kerosene to furnaces, boilers to wood- burning heaters, each type of heater comes with its own benefits and drawbacks. With a full grasp of the range of heating systems available on the market, you can select the best option for your home or commercial space.
Understanding your heating system could provide you with some peace of mind and also help you determine when you need to call a professional.
Tips from Your Local Heating Pros
If you’re pretty handy, you may be able to tackle some heating maintenance tasks on your own. Take a look at the list of routine maintenance below to determine what tasks you’re comfortable taking on, and which ones you might what a pro to handle. Some may only take you a few minutes each month to complete. These simple habits can save you countless dollars throughout the year by preventing costly damage and increasing the efficiency of your system.
Routine Heater Inspection and Maintenance:
- Change the heater filter monthly.
- Ensure adequate airflow and fans are working properly.
- Lubricate motorized joints.
- Inspect electrical parts.
- Inspect the burners.
- Checking and calibrating the thermostat.
- Inspect the heater safety controls.
- Inspect the gas line for leaks.
- Inspect belts - adjust and replace as needed.
- Conduct an amp-draw test to gauge efficiency.
- Inspect condensate drain line for any blockage.
- Check the heat exchanger for rust, corrosion, or damage.
Why Heating Maintenance Matters
Prioritizing heating maintenance services provides many benefits. For example, lubricated mechanical components tend to work more efficiently. This means your heater requires less energy to operate. Another great way to ensure energy efficiency is by swapping filters out regularly. A clean filter allows warm air to flow more freely.
Preventative heater system maintenance is also a good idea. Inspecting, cleaning, and maintaining your system can help you spot issues before they warrant emergency repair. In return, you’ll enjoy greater comfort at home and fewer unexpected repair bills.
HVAC professionals recommend annual maintenance for heaters ahead of the cold winter months. A tune-up will help ensure you’re not caught in the midst of a cold snap without any heat. If it’s been a while since your last heating system inspection, there may be underlying issues in play. That’s why it’s a good idea to schedule a service appointment, even if the worst of the winter is behind you.
What Happens During Heating Maintenance?
Each heating maintenance appointment starts with a visual inspection of your system. Next, we’ll swap your old filter out for a new one. The heating system is then cleaned thoroughly. Any moving parts will be lubricated, and the thermostat will be assessed to ensure it’s working properly. Electrical connections are also inspected and tightened.
We’ll also inspect the condensate drain line for a blockage. If dirty, the drain line will be cleaned. While you might consider heating maintenance services an additional expense or time-consuming, it is money and time well spent. Assessing the effectiveness of your heating system and making minor changes to improve output, such as a service appointment, will go a long way to ensure your system continues to operate efficiently all season long.
The Benefits of Heating Maintenance
The impact of a single heating maintenance appointment can be significant because you’ll learn a lot about the condition of your unit. An HVAC professional will make sure everything is functioning as it should and your system is operating as efficiently as possible. You may even see a reduction in your energy bills, since a well-maintained system tends to be more energy-efficient. Prioritizing maintenance can also help you get more years out of your current system.
Should I Repair or Replace My Heater?
The costs of keeping your current heater and replacing it with a newer model hinge on a few different factors. If you’re considering replacing your heater, your local Aire Serv offers free in-home quotes to help you make the best decision based on your needs. Since we are a repair and installation company, we can provide you with a great deal of insight regarding the best options.
When deciding to keep or replace your heater, ask the following questions:
- How old is the system? — Heaters don’t typically last past 10-12 years and an older unit is less energy-efficient.
- How often have I repaired it? — If repairs (or anticipated repairs) this year amount to 50% or more of the cost of replacement, it’s time to get a new model.
- How much does it cost to operate? — If your heating bills are continuing to rise each year despite regular maintenance, it may be time for a new heating system.
- How well does it work? — If it takes longer for your home to reach a comfortable temperature, it’s an indication your system is not operating efficiently - another valid reason to replace your system.
Best Heating Maintenance Service Near Me
Your local Aire Serv professionals provide the best heating maintenance services throughout Canada. If you want to be more proactive with your heating and cooling system, we can help with heating system maintenance plans that will extend the life of your unit. Regular maintenance will also help you save on your energy costs. Our team is experienced and well-equipped to perform a thorough inspection and maintenance of your system on a day and time that r is most convenient for you. Don’t delay in servicing your heating system – schedule your appointment online, or give us a call today.