Get a Head Start on Autumn HVAC Maintenance!

Make Sure Your Heating System Is Ready for Fall and Winter with Early Maintenance!

Summer is nearly gone, which means cooler weather is just around the corner, and even colder weather isn't far beyond it. And that means it'll soon be time to fire up the heater that's been lying dormant all summer. But homeowners shouldn't just take it on faith that their heating systems are up for the task. That's where maintenance comes in.

Routine fall maintenance is key to ensuring that the home's heating system is ready for the cold months ahead. But waiting to schedule maintenance until the leaves start falling is asking for trouble. So keep reading to discover how a heater tune-up can save the day - and why it's a good idea to get a jump on it.

The Importance of Annual Heater Maintenance

Like any machine, heaters and furnaces need periodic service and maintenance to continue functioning properly. Most heating issues that homeowners face can be prevented with regular maintenance. Even worse, many of the issues caused by neglect can escalate and do serious damage to the unit. Staying on top of maintenance is the most sure-fire way to avoid expensive repairs and extend the unit's life. 

General maintenance also helps improve the unit's overall performance, making a considerable difference in energy efficiency. And more importantly, having the unit professionally serviced will help keep the home and family safe from unseen dangers that may develop, such as gas or carbon monoxide leaks. 

Why Not Wait on Maintenance Until Fall Arrives?

Many homeowners are tempted to wait on their annual heater service until the weather gets colder and the heater starts seeing more use. But after the stresses of the previous cold seasons and the months of disuse, the heater may have issues or vulnerabilities that can hinder its performance or lead to a malfunction.

Getting the heater serviced before its first use of the season will ensure that it's prepared for whatever autumn throws at it - after all, a cold front can swoop in anytime, without much warning. And once the cold comes, HVAC service companies get a lot busier, making it harder to get a slot on the service schedule. Getting in before the busy season usually means a more convenient service window - and a happier technician!

What Heater Maintenance Entails

Routine heater maintenance involves a comprehensive list of tasks to ensure safety, identify potential problems, prevent future issues, mitigate wear and tear, and improve performance. This typically means checking all safety mechanisms for proper function, inspecting the gas lines, pilot light, burners,  ignition, and exhaust vent for leaks or irregularities, as well as testing for combustible gases and CO emissions. It also means thoroughly cleaning the unit's key components, lubricating moving parts, checking electrical systems and wiring, testing control circuits, and calibrating the thermostat, among other things.

The whole process can usually be done in an hour or two by a proficient technician. And for the sake of safety (not to mention most warranties), heater maintenance is a task that's best left to the professionals.

About Sunset Heating & Cooling

Since 1922, Sunset Heating & Cooling has been the go-to resource for all things HVAC & electrical in their community. They offer up-front pricing, financing, and a highly beneficial maintenance membership plan. There's truly no one better to call for heater maintenance and repair in Portland, OR!

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