Why You Should Have Your Furnace Serviced

Your heating system is one of the most important aspects of your home. It keeps our homes warm all winter long, which we know here in Elgin, IL and the surrounding areas, is essential. The winters can be pretty cold, and if your furnace isn’t working properly, it could jeopardize your comfort, and cost you money! Regular furnace servicing not only guarantees warmth during cold months but also contributes to the overall wellbeing of your household.

I’ve been working in Elgin, IL for years now, servicing, repairing, and installing furnaces and heating systems. I’ve seen some systems that are serviced regularly, and others that don’t get looked at for years. Let me tell you, the ones that never get serviced are the ones I’m coming out to repair and replace years before they should be. 

This article is going to tell you why you should have your heating system serviced every year, and what the benefits are to regular maintenance. If you need some help with your heating system, give us a call at (630) 504-8688, or click here to contact us online! 

Lengthen The Lifespan Of Your System

Your furnace should last between 15-20 years as long as you have it serviced by a professional regularly. Furnaces, like any other mechanical system, undergo wear and tear. Servicing ensures that all parts are in good working order, which reduces the stress on the system, and keeps your furnace working for years longer.

Because a furnace has such a long lifespan, the difference in service and no service could mean 5-10 years more of smooth operation. It makes a huge difference in your wallet, and also for your home comfort. 

Keep Your Furnace Running Efficiently

When you have your system taken care of with regular furnace service, you are making sure that the system is energy efficient. A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, using less energy to produce the same amount of heat. This efficiency not only lowers your energy bills but also reduces your carbon footprint, making it a financially and environmentally beneficial practice.

When you go years without service, your system slowly loses efficiency. This is going to end up costing you more in energy bills. The cost of regular maintenance is offset by the energy savings, and the lengthened lifespan of your furnace. 

Prevent Breakdowns And Repairs

Regular servicing can help identify and resolve minor issues before they escalate into major problems. This could be a component that needs to be replaced, or cleaned. Furnace breakdowns are always inconvenient; and they can also get expensive depending on what you need fixed. 

Now, you can still experience breakdowns and repairs being needed, but regular service GREATLY reduces the likelihood of this happening. A service technician will be able to tell you if there is something wrong before you get stuck in the cold, hoping the fix is quick and easy. 

Improve Your Home Comfort

The most basic reason for furnace service is to make sure the home is staying warm and cozy. A well-serviced furnace provides consistent heating throughout the entire home. 

A furnace service will also help you improve the indoor air quality of your home. We will replace the air filter, and clean the furnace, which decreases the allergens and airborne irritants that may come through your heating system. 

Ensures Your Furnace Is Safe

Safety is a huge concern with any heating system that burns fuel. Most furnaces use gas or oil, and when combustion occurs, the dangerous gas that is produced is pushed out of the home. 

A malfunctioning furnace can pose several hazards, including carbon monoxide leaks, which are dangerous and potentially lethal. Regular servicing includes safety checks that can identify risks and ensure that your furnace is operating safely. We also recommend installing a carbon monoxide detector just to make sure your home is safe all winter long. 

How Often Should Your Furnace Be Serviced

For optimal performance and safety, it’s recommended that your furnace be serviced annually. The best time to schedule this service is in early fall, before the heating season begins. This helps you get ready for the cold, and you aren’t scrambling once the cold kicks in. Still, if you haven’t had your furnace serviced in the fall, schedule it in the winter. As long as it’s not the middle of the summer, a furnace service is a good idea at least once a year. 

DIY: What Can You Do For Your Furnace?

While professional heating service is recommended once a year, there are several things homeowners can do to keep their furnace in good shape on their own: 

• Regularly Replace or Clean Filters: This is perhaps the easiest and most important task. A clean filter ensures efficient airflow, reducing strain on the furnace. It also helps clean the air in your home. 
• Keep the Area Around the Furnace Clear: Ensure there’s no storage or clutter around the furnace. This not only improves efficiency but also reduces fire hazards.
• Check the Thermostat: Sometimes issues are not with the furnace itself but with the thermostat. Your technician should be able to check it, but replace the batteries when needed, and make sure the temperature reaches the desired setting. 
• Inspect Vents and Ducts: If you have couches or furniture blocking a vent, it’s going to restrict airflow, and cause heating problems. 
• Listen for Unusual Noises: Most furnaces make some noise, but not every noise is common. If you are hearing any noises other than the usual kicking on and off, give a professional a call. 

When Should You Schedule Furnace Service?

Apart from the recommended annual service in the fall or winter, there are certain signs that indicate your furnace might need servicing:

• Unusual noises during operation
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Inconsistent heating or frequent cycling
• Visible signs of rust or soot

If you are noticing any issues with your heating system, we can help you out. Compass Heating and Air provides the best heating service in Elgin, IL, and the surrounding areas. We will explain our process, and let you know exactly what kind of shape your system is in. Give us a call at (630) 504-8688, or contact us online!