Check it Out: Furnace Inspections Eliminate a Chilling Experience
A heating system that breaks down in the middle of a cold winter
night can be a chilling experience. That's why heating experts at
the Trane Home Comfort Institute recommend that you have your system
inspected and serviced by a qualified heating contractor prior to
the beginning of each heating season, regardless of what type of
fuel you use.
If you have a gas furnace, the best person to call is the dealer
who installed it or the manufacturer's local representative.
While every inspection will vary somewhat, the Trane Home Comfort
Institute has compiled the following list of procedures most dealers
will perform to ensure the safe and efficient operation of your
gas furnace all season long:
Check the thermostat calibration. An improperly calibrated
thermostat will call for more or less heat than desired. The
former will cost you money; both will cost you comfort.
Check the air filter. A dirty air filter can reduce heating
efficiency, increase energy usage and affect the reliability
of the equipment. Following the inspection, homeowners should
clean or replace the filter monthly during the heating season.
Check the blower. A clean, properly adjusted blower and blower
components are necessary to provide the air flow that ensures
proper capacity and maximum efficiency. Check the burners. To
ensure smooth ignition and proper combustion, burners are observed
for proper burning characteristics.
Check the heat exchangers. This inspection for cracks and corrosion
helps ensure safe operation of the furnace.
Check the fan control. This ensures that the fan goes on and
off at predetermined temperatures in order to deliver the proper
temperature of air to the house.
Check the high limit control. This is the furnace's principal
means of preventing overheating and possible damage to the unit.
Check the manifold gas pressure. Proper pressure is required
to control fuel input to the furnace burners.
Check the venting system. All fine connections and elbows should
be firmly fined. There should be no cracks or openings where
the flue enters the chimney or side wall. There should be no
obstructions in the flue or the chimney to prevent the exit
of combustion byproducts.
Many dealers offer preventive maintenance contracts that cover
periodic inspections and, if needed, repairs. According to the Trane
Home Comfort Institute, the cost of such a service is usually well
worth the investment, especially in terms of peace of mind.
Air Conditioning Contractors of America - Dayton Chapter (ACCA-Dayton), Ann Detmer, Executive Director
P.O. Box 49646, Dayton, OH 45449
Telephone (937) 237-9074
