Don't Wait Till A Cold Snap; Make Sure Your Furnace Is Running Right

If there’s a problem anywhere in your furnace, there’s a good time and a bad time to find out about it. The bad time is when you least expect it and have to pay emergency service charges. The good time is right now. While we’re still in autumn weather, your HVAC contractor can perform a full furnace check-up at a time that’s convenient and economical. A trained technician will inspect vital components for safety, wear and tear, and efficient operation. He or she will also perform preventive procedures to avoid future breakdowns. The whole process takes only an hour or so but the peace of mind will carry you through another Coastal Bend winter. Here’s what’s the technician will do:

1. Install a new air filter. This needs to be done every month during the winter anyway, so ask the technician to show you how to do it yourself in the future.
2. Remove the burner and clean it. Check the flame sensor for excess residue and remove if necessary.
3. Check the blower speed for heating.  Lubricate the blower motor oil ports.
4. Visually verify that the exhaust vent is clear of obstructions such as bird nests or leaves.
5. Compare the thermostat reading to the actual room temperature. Re-calibrate the thermostat if there is any discrepancy. Make sure the thermostat is communicating with the unit properly.
6. Measure manifold gas pressure. In the event of a leak from a supply pipe, pressure may be low.
7. Check the electronic igniter for cracks and frayed wiring, and clean it. If a pilot light is installed instead, clean the flame sensor.
8. In a high-efficiency unit, confirm that the flue condensate drain line is open and draining properly.
9. Start up the furnace. Using a carbon monoxide detector, check the exhaust gasses for excess carbon monoxide. Also check the air in the home for dangerous levels.
10. Verify the operation of the furnace high-limit switch and condensate pressure switch.

CCAC, Inc.is Constantly Concerned About Customers in Corpus Christi and the surrounding area. Get set for winter by calling now to schedule a furnace checkup.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about furnaces and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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