It's the coldest night of winter. You're wrapped in a blanket in your pleasantly warm living room when you suddenly notice the temperature dropping. As the chill creeps in, you might start wondering, “Did I ever schedule that furnace check-up?”
Many homeowners debate whether annual furnace inspections are truly necessary or just another upsell from HVAC companies. But here’s the reality: A yearly check-up is one of the best ways to keep your furnace running safely, efficiently and reliably all season long.
Helps avoid emergency repairs
Your furnace works hard all winter, and like any hardworking machine, parts wear out over time. Annual inspections enable technicians to catch early signs of trouble, like a malfunctioning heat exchanger, broken blower components, a tripped circuit breaker, dirty ductwork or old filters, before they escalate into major problems. Addressing these issues proactively can save you from expensive repairs or sudden breakdowns on the coldest days of the year.
Improves energy efficiency
A clean, well-tuned furnace doesn’t need to overwork itself to heat your home. During an inspection, your technician will clean critical components, examine airflow, test the thermostat and ensure everything is running at peak efficiency. A properly maintained furnace uses less fuel and energy, which means lower utility bills.
Extends the life of your furnace
Think of your furnace like your vehicle. If you never change the oil or check the brakes, you’re asking for trouble. The same goes for your heating system. Regular inspections reduce strain on internal parts, helping the system run more smoothly. A furnace can last 15 to 20 years, but completing annual maintenance and being diligent with repairs can extend its life even longer.
Ensures safety for your family
Gas furnaces burn natural gas to generate heat, and without proper upkeep, they can leak carbon monoxide or pose fire hazards. A trained technician will inspect for leaks, test carbon monoxide levels and ensure that your system is venting properly. That peace of mind is priceless.
Keeps your warranty valid
Most furnace warranties come with a catch: Regular maintenance is required. If you skip inspections and something breaks, your manufacturer could deny your warranty claim. Keeping up with annual maintenance makes sure that you're covered if a part fails while under warranty.
Consider a high-efficiency upgrade
An annual inspection is also a great time to talk to your technician about the future of your home’s comfort system. If your furnace is over 15 years old, you might want to consider upgrading to a new, high-efficiency natural gas unit. ENERGY STAR®-certified furnaces are independently tested to meet strict energy performance requirements.
Stay warm and worry-free
No one wants to face a furnace failure in the dead of winter. Annual inspections — which typically cost between $50 to $200 on average, depending on your area — are a simple way to protect your home, your comfort and your budget. Schedule your tune-up in late summer or early fall to beat the first cold snap and give yourself one less thing to worry about.
Check out all of our heating tips to increase energy efficiency this winter.