You've probably heard how important it is to get your HVAC systems tuned-up, but you may be wondering what actually goes on during the tune-up. Annual tune-ups prevent complicated issues from occurring and keep your cooling and heating systems running efficiently. In this article, we will focus in on heater tune-ups and what they entail.
Annual check-ups on your heating system will prevent your system from breaking down or losing efficiency on that first frigid day of winter. Preventative maintenance (maintenance before the cold weather comes along) will increase the system's lifespan and save you money. You can read more about the benefits of a heater tune-up by clicking the button below.
Everyone should schedule a heater tune-up each year, but if you forget, there will be a few signs that your system is waiting for some TLC. Skipping the tune-up and risking heater failure is not worth it, though, and repairs and replacements will basically always be more expensive than preventative maintenance.
What Your Heater Tune-Up Consists Of
So, what exactly will the technician do during your heater tune-up? At ECI Comfort, we conduct a comprehensive list of different assessments to make sure your system is running properly. Each system requires a different checklist, each with 15 + items to ensure a thorough check of the heater. We listed the different types of heating systems below with just some of many components of a tune-up for each.
Gas furnace
During your gas furnace tune-up, the technician will test the safety and control circuits, inspect and tighten all electrical wiring, and check the static pressure of the ductwork. In addition, they will inspect the burners and vacuum them if need be, replace the filter, and inspect and clean the blower.
Oil furnace
For an oil furnace tune-up, the technician will check the heat exchanger for cracks, inspect the oil burner, replace the oil filter, and vacuum the furnace and chimney base. They will remove and clean the blower wheel, replace the pump screen and clean the inside of the oil pump, and lubricate all motors, bearings, fans, and circulators.
Oil boiler
A tune-up for your oil boiler will include things like checking the oil level, checking for leaks, replacing the oil filter, and removing and cleaning the nozzle assembly. The technician will also vacuum the boiler and chimney base and inspect the heat exchanger.
Gas boiler
When tuning-up your gas boiler, the technician will test the ignition system for proper operation, check and clear the condensate drain line, and check the gas pressure. They will also inspect the burners and vacuum them if needed, vacuum the chimney case and heat exchanger if needed, and clean the exterior of the boiler.
Heat pump
During your heat pump tune-up, the technician will test the thermostat, check the evaporator coil for leaks and clean it, take static pressure readings, and check for vibration and noise. They will also inspect and clean the condenser coil, check the refrigerant pressure, and tighten electrical connections.
Ductless heat pump
Ductless heat pump tune-ups will have similar aspects to ducted heat pump tune-ups. The technician will check for a refrigerant leak, clean the evaporator coil, remove and clean filters, and replace the air filter. There will be a visual inspection of the indoor and outdoor units, and the technician will wipe down the outdoor unit and inspect the wiring.
Again, these are just some of many components of an annual heater tune-up. To get more details or information, give us a call or talk to your technician at the time of your appointment. If you get a tune-up and nothing is wrong with your system, you won't be sorry that you got it cleaned and checked out to increase efficiency and lifespan. But if your heater fails in the middle of winter because you failed to schedule preventative maintenance, you might be feeling regretful! 
If you live in the Delaware Valley/Greater Philadelphia area and would like to find comfort within your home, visit our website or give us a call at 215 - 245 - 3200 to learn more.
