As the winter season is approaching, it's time to start thinking about your home's heating system. One of the most crucial steps in preparing your heater for the colder months is having it inspected regularly. But how often should you have your heater inspected? In this blog post, we'll discuss the importance of regular heater inspections and how often you should schedule them to ensure your heating system runs efficiently and safely.
Having your heater regularly inspected by a professional can help prevent potential issues before they become major problems. Professional technicians can identify and fix small problems before they turn into costly or catastrophic issues. During an inspection, the technician will check the furnace's critical components such as the heat exchanger, controls, and igniter to ensure they're working correctly, and the system is running safely. They will also clean the furnace, change air filters, and lubricate the system's moving parts.
The frequency of your heater inspections depends on a few factors, such as the age of your heating system, its maintenance history, and the manufacturer's recommendations. If you have a new heating system, it's recommended to schedule an inspection once a year. Older systems should be inspected twice a year, preferably before the heating and cooling seasons. Regular inspections also ensure that your heating system operates efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.
Another factor to consider is your heating system's fuel source. If you have a gas furnace, scheduling bi-annual inspections is recommended because gas leaks can lead to house fires or carbon monoxide poisoning, which is hazardous to your health. Electric heaters, on the other hand, can go up to three years between inspections because they have fewer moving parts than gas units.
Ignoring heater inspections can lead to catastrophic consequences. In some cases, a malfunctioning furnace can emit carbon monoxide, a deadly gas that's difficult to detect without proper equipment. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may include headaches, nausea, dizziness, or confusion. In severe cases, carbon monoxide exposure can lead to brain damage, coma, or death. Regular inspections by a professional technician can detect any potential carbon monoxide leaks and ensure your family's safety.
In conclusion, having your heater inspected regularly can prevent potential safety hazards and save you money on energy bills. Scheduling an inspection once a year for new systems and twice a year for older gas furnaces can keep your home's heating system running safely and efficiently. A professional technician can identify small problems before they become big problems, prolonging the life of your heating system. At Discount Air Supply, we provide HVAC supplies in Central Florida, including professional heater inspection services. Contact us today to schedule your heater inspection and ensure your family's safety this winter.