There are many reasons why heating maintenance should be a top priority for you every fall. It improves air circulation through the heating system, prevents excess friction and wear and tear, catches little things that could turn into big problems down the line, boosts efficiency and effectiveness, and even extends the lifespan of your heating system.
But none of those reasons matter quite as much as this one: safety. Your wellbeing is the top priority of our technicians. Without heating maintenance, your heating system could cause serious safety hazards in your home. Maintenance keeps you safe! Here’s how.
Cleaning and Lubrication
One issue that can create a fire risk is overheating. During maintenance, your technician will thoroughly clean all parts of your heating system. This includes disassembling portions of it to access every nook and cranny. They will also apply lubricant to the places where moving parts rub against one another. Removing dust and grit and keeping the system lubricated will reduce friction and overheating.
Electrical Testing
Electrical fires can be a possibility with either gas or electric heating systems, because they all have some electrical components. Your technician will do comprehensive testing to make sure everything electrical—heating elements, wire connections, thermostat, motor, and more—are securely connected, functioning properly, and accurately calibrated.
Gas Inspection
Concerns with gas-burning furnaces are different from electric ones. Your technician will need to closely inspect the gas line, ignition assembly or pilot light, and heat exchanger (that’s the part that contains combustion gasses so carbon monoxide won’t enter your air). They’ll make sure there are no gas leaks, and also ensure that you have functional carbon monoxide detectors.
Safety Systems
There are some components of a heating system that actually create the heat, such as heating elements or burners. There are some that distribute the heat, like the blower fan, the motor that powers it, and the ducts and vents themselves. But there are also some parts of the system that exist as safety-checking measures. Not all furnaces need to have the same safety features, but there are some commonalities.
The flame sensor makes sure a flame is burning before allowing gas to be released, so it won’t just leak. The limit switch keeps track of temperature, and will shut the system down if it overheats. If you have an older furnace with a pilot light, there’s a thermocouple to shut off the gas supply if the pilot goes out. In new furnaces with draft inducers, there’s an air pressure switch to prevent a buildup of gasses.
When you schedule heating maintenance in Winchester, VA, your technician will make sure all these safety features are operating as they should. They’ll keep your furnace clean and well-lubricated. They’ll address any tiny concerns before they turn into big problems that require major repairs. And you and your family will be able to stay warm and safe this winter.
AllTech Services, Inc. is your trusted resource for all your heating concerns. Contact us today!