A well-functioning furnace is critical for a comfortable and safe home. Over time, even the best heating systems can develop problems that put your safety at risk, and many of them can't be seen or smelled. Routine furnace service finds and fixes these issues before they become serious.
Why routine furnace service is essential for safety
Preventing carbon monoxide leaks is one of the most important reasons to schedule routine furnace service. Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas that is dangerous to breathe, which is why working CO detectors and proper venting matter. During a service visit our technicians inspect the heat exchanger, burners and venting for the problems that let it escape.
Finding gas leaks is another essential part of furnace service. During regular maintenance, our technicians inspect the gas lines, valve and connections at the furnace and repair any issues they find.
Proper ventilation and combustion are vital for safe operation. Poor venting can let combustion gases build up in your home, while improper combustion wastes fuel and can produce carbon monoxide. Our technicians check the flue and combustion process and make adjustments so your furnace runs safely and efficiently.
Safety first: If you smell gas or a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, leave the home right away and call 911 or SDG&E from outside. Don't use light switches, phones or appliances inside until it's safe. Keep working carbon monoxide alarms near bedrooms and on every level of your home.
Common safety issues found during furnace service
Cracked heat exchangers. The heat exchanger transfers heat from the combustion chamber to the air that circulates through your home. A crack can allow combustion gases, including carbon monoxide, into your living space. Our technicians inspect it carefully and recommend repair or replacement if they find damage.
Blocked exhaust vents. Vents carry combustion gases safely out of your home. Over time they can become clogged with debris, nests or pests. We check and clear the venting to keep gases flowing out, not in.
Faulty electrical connections. Loose or damaged wiring can cause malfunctions, short circuits or even fires. We examine the wiring, connections and controls and repair or replace faulty components.
Ignition and flame problems. Delayed ignition, a yellow or flickering flame, or soot around the furnace can signal dirty burners or a combustion problem. We inspect and clean the ignition system and burners so the furnace lights smoothly and burns cleanly.
What a furnace safety tune-up checks
- Heat exchanger inspection for cracks and corrosion
- Burner cleaning and flame inspection
- Ignition system (pilot or electronic igniter) and flame sensor
- Gas valve, gas pressure and connections at the furnace
- Flue and venting for blockages and proper draft
- Safety controls, including limit and rollout switches
- Electrical connections, wiring and controls
- Blower motor and wheel, cleaned and inspected
- Filter cleaned or replaced
- Thermostat calibration and wiring
Benefits beyond safety
Better efficiency. A clean, well-adjusted furnace uses less energy to heat your home, which helps lower your bills.
Fewer surprise breakdowns. Regular check-ups catch worn parts and small problems early, before they leave you without heat on a cold night.
Longer equipment life. Addressing wear and tear, cleaning components and keeping the system properly adjusted helps your furnace last longer, delaying the cost of a replacement.
Cleaner indoor air. Dust and airborne particles build up in a heating system and get blown through the house. A clean filter, blower and components help keep your air cleaner, with less dust and less pollen.
How often to schedule furnace service
Once a year, ideally in the fall before the heating season, is the standard recommendation. For more detail, see How often should you schedule furnace service? Our maintenance plans schedule the fall heating check and spring cooling check for you.
For reliable furnace service in Encinitas and across coastal North County and San Diego County, Precision Air Inc's technicians are ready to keep your heating system safe and in top shape.
Need service? Call (760) 858-8000, Monday–Friday 8–5, or send us a message.