Go Pro For Heating System Efficiency In Houston, TX
Regular heating system tune ups and maintenance are smart moves for every Houston homeowner.
Why? Because keeping your home warm involves fairly sophisticated electrical, mechanical and thermal devices.
A thermostat sends a signal to a valve or relay switch that ignites the furnace. When the furnace warms, another switch activates a blower that circulates air into all rooms. Hot water systems pump warmed fluid through a radiator array.
What To Expect From A Heating Professional
When a heating specialist arrives, he or she will methodically evaluate the system and look for ways to improve efficiency.
Filter Familiarity
A pro will first close off the furnace’s fuel supply and shut off the power—and not forget to turn them all back on after maintenance. The first step is a filter check. As air passes in an out of the system, the filters trap dirt particles. Without cleaning or replacement, buildup causes the blowers to strain and introduces additional reductions in system efficiency.
Maintaining The Blower
Next, your service person will examine the blower and lubricate its motor, then vacuum away debris and replace the filter. The burner must be examined for corrosion. Flame size checks are required with the blower operating and on idle. The belts on belt-driven blowers might need adjusting or replacing if cracked or torn. Older furnaces often contain two motor bearings that your serviceman will know to oil annually.
Don’t Forget The Flue
The heating system tune up and maintenance should continue with an examination of the flue for damage and blockage of the outdoor vent. All holes and cracks should be repaired. In homes with hot air systems, all air registers should be cleared of dust. Furnishings and draperies should be moved if they interfere with warmed airflow. When your heating ducts also carry summer’s conditioned air, your service person will adjust their dampers seasonally.
We’re Here To Educate You About HVAC
The technician will explain the different filter types, so you can evaluate their efficiency and cost and make any adjustments you feel necessary. Spun fiberglass filters are the cheapest, but do not capture small particles. Pleated disposables, while more costly, are much more effective than fiberglass. You might want to switch to electrostatic, which are more expensive, but reusable. If you want top-of-the-line filtration, ask your heating contractor to switch your home over to electric or mass media filters.
If you feel confused by the issues of heating system tune ups and maintenance, yet know your furnace needs a hard look from a top-quality contractor, check out heating specialists in the Houston area.
