Most Recent: December 31, 1969
You need to keep your heating system in good shape to avoid costly repairs and keep your home warm during cold weather. Most homeowners focus on obvious maintenance, like changing air filters, but there are several other tasks that can make a big difference. Here are seven overlooked Zephyrhills, FL, heating maintenance tasks that can save you thousands in the long run. 1. Clean Your Furnace’s Flame SensorThe flame sensor in your furnace is crucial for the system to run safely. Over time, dirt and debris can build up on the sensor and cause it to malfunction. This buildup can cause the system to shut down frequently or even fail completely. Cleaning the flame sensor once a year can prevent these issues and improve efficiency. Regularly checking this component will have your furnace running smoothly and reduce the risk of costly repairs. 2. Check and Seal Ductwork LeaksLeaky ducts are a hidden energy vampire in many homes. Cracks or gaps in ductwork allow heat to escape and your furnace to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. This means higher energy bills and shorter lifespan of your heating system. A professional duct inspection and sealing service can prevent heat loss and get you the most out of your system. 3. Lubricate Blower Motor Bearings The blower motor is responsible for circulating warm air throughout your home. But many homeowners forget to lubricate its bearings and it leads to unnecessary wear and tear. Lack of lubrication can cause the motor to overheat or fail and result in costly repairs or replacement. Adding this simple task to your annual maintenance routine can extend the life of your blower motor and get optimal performance. 4. Check Thermostat CalibrationAn improperly calibrated thermostat can throw off your entire heating system’s performance. If the thermostat misreads your home’s temperature, your furnace may run longer than necessary or not turn on when it should. This wastes energy and causes uneven heating and discomfort. Verifying and adjusting the thermostat calibration will give you accurate temperature readings and efficient operation. 5. Clear and Inspect Vents and RegistersBlocked vents and registers can disrupt airflow and make your heating system work harder. This extra strain can cause higher energy consumption and wear on critical components. Regularly clearing dust, debris, or furniture from your vents will allow your system to distribute heat properly. An inspection will also reveal hidden issues like disconnected duct sections or mold growth, which should be addressed ASAP. 6. Test and Replace Carbon Monoxide DetectorsCarbon monoxide (CO) leaks from a faulty heating system can be life-threatening. However, many homeowners forget to test their CO detectors regularly. Old or malfunctioning detectors may not alert you to high levels of carbon monoxide. Test these devices twice a year and replace batteries. If your detectors are over 5 years old, consider replacing them with newer models for better protection. 7. Flush the Boiler or Radiator SystemFor homes with boilers or radiators, sediment buildup can affect heating performance. Over time, minerals in the water settle at the bottom of the boiler or radiator, restrict heat transfer, and make the system work harder. Flushing the system every 1-2 years will remove this buildup, improve performance, and prevent costly repairs. This proactive measure can also reduce corrosion and extend the life of your heating equipment. While these tasks may seem minor, neglecting them can cost you a lot of time. Being proactive with inspections, cleanings, and repairs will make your heating system run efficiently, last longe,r and keep your home comfortable. A small investment in regular maintenance can save you thousands in repairs and energy bills. Are you ready to give your heating system the attention it deserves? Contact a trusted HVAC professional from RMR Air Conditioning to schedule a heat pump repair in Zephyrhills, FL. Don’t wait until a costly breakdown occurs. Call (813) 778-3993 to start saving money and enjoying peace of mind now. FAQs 1. How often should I do maintenance? Annual maintenance is recommended for most heating systems before the cold season starts. Some tasks like cleaning vents or testing CO detectors may need more frequent attention. 2. Can I do these myself? Some tasks, like clearing vents or testing thermostats, can be done by homeowners, while others require professional help.