Here’s a hot tip for fall in Bellevue: Take action now so that a furnace problem doesn’t leave you in the cold. An inspection and tuneup will help ensure that your heating system is winter-ready, safe and efficient. Our consumer services researchers found that the price of a furnace inspection can start as low as $65. But the cost of neglecting furnace maintenance can be high, not only in terms of cost, but in convenience and safety. Heating pros tell our team that 75 percent of emergency winter calls can be attributed to lack of maintenance. A neglected heating system might break down when you most need it. It can also lead to higher energy bills. In the worst-case scenario, an untended furnace may emit colorless, odorless but deadly carbon monoxide.

Our researchers found that during a thorough heating-system inspection, a technician will:

• Check electrical connections and test voltage to make sure system components aren’t likely to fail anytime soon.
• Lubricate moving parts. Insufficient lubrication can decrease overall efficiency and create early wear and tear.
• Make sure the condensation drain for your home’s air conditioner, furnace or heat pump isn’t clogged. An obstructed drain can cause water damage, high humidity, and mold or bacteria growth.
• Check startup and shutdown controls. The start and stop cycles, usually based on thermostat settings, should be checked to make sure the system is operating properly and heating as programmed.
• Check, clean or replace the air filter.
• Inspect exhaust outlets. Improper exhausting could cause a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide or other gases. During a seasonal maintenance tuneup, the chimney flue or vent stack should be checked to ensure there’s no corrosion, leaks or back drafting.
• Check fuel lines and connections, and burners and heat exchangers. Leaky or disconnected fuel lines or connections present a safety risk and lower system efficiency. Burners with accumulations of soot and cracked heat exchangers also compromise a system’s energy efficiency.
Aside from scheduling an expert inspection and tuneup, there are several things you can do to improve your system’s efficiency:
• Regularly replace filters. Experts recommend changing them at least every three months, but your system might require more frequent changing. A clogged air filter will restrict air flow, causing the unit to work harder. This reduces its lifespan and raises your utility bills. If you’re unsure how to deal with the filter, ask for help from your HVAC contractor during the routine maintenance visit.
• Install a programmable thermostat. These can save you up to 10 percent on your energy bills because, for example, they allow you to avoid overheating your house when nobody’s home.
It’s important to hire a well-trained and properly licensed professional to keep your furnace in tiptop shape. Heating and cooling systems comprise one of the home’s most complex systems. Also, many states require heating and cooling professionals to be licensed.

This story was published in the the Tacoma News Tribune on Oct 30, 2013.

Treat’s Heating and Cooling has been providing quality inspections & tune-ups in Bellevue for over 40 years. Our Customer Service is paramount and your satisfaction is guaranteed. Call now to schedule your tune-up.