One has to wonder if your furnace is up to the task of the first cold snap. When did someone last give your heating system a once over? You would not want to discover it is on the fritz on the year’s coldest night.
Such are the questions to put to yourself before the winter in Carolina makes itself known. We at Dilling Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical have been putting families in the Carolinas at ease with their heat since 1955. Should you need a professional opinion or have any queries about your furnace, we can be reached at (704) 741-8773.
There is no better time than fall to attend to your furnace. The winters here do not compare to what you find up north, but our temperatures will drop enough that a reliable heating system is essential. Put in some care now and you will be spared an uncomfortable surprise down the road.
The Case for a Fall Tune-Up
For the most part your furnace is idle. But come bad weather you are asking it to go for months on end. All the wear and dust from disuse can cause trouble as soon as you put the thermostat on heat.
It is prudent to get ahead of the season so as to nip small things in the bud. A competent technician will see the early signs of most furnace ailments in the course of a check up.
Consider these points for why a tune-up is called for in the fall:
- You will not be left without heat in the depths of winter
- Technicians are more open to booking prior to the rush
- It is less costly to make minor repairs at this stage
- An efficient, well tuned unit means lower energy bills
- There is comfort in knowing the system is in order
What to Expect from a Tune-Up
We do not believe in a cursory look. A proper tune-up is an inspection of the components that ensure your home is safe and warm; a pro will know what to test and where.
In the normal course of a fall tune-up a technician is going to be looking at:
- Any wear or cracks in the heat exchanger
- Burners and ignition for a good light
- Airflow from the blower motor and fan
- Safety controls and the electrical side of things
- The thermostat for accuracy
- The air filter in need of a change
Too many homeowners forgo this and make a call only when something has given out. Regular upkeep will stave off breakdowns and extend the life of the system.
A Few Things to Do on Your Own
You do not need to call in a pro for everything. Between visits there are some elementary tasks one can do.
This fall we suggest you:
- Put in a new air filter and make a habit of checking it each month in the winter
- Get the clutter and furniture out from around the furnace
- See that every vent and register is unobstructed
- Put the thermostat on heat to test it in advance of the cold
- Be on the alert for a squeal or rattle
Then there are the odd smells or a lack of airflow which indicate it is time for us to come out. A persistent burning or gas odor should not be put off.
When to Call in the Professionals
There are red flags you would be wise to heed rather than attempt a fix of your own. They can mean the difference between a problem and a cold house.
If you are seeing any of the following:
- The furnace cycling on and off with some frequency
- One room is fine while another is cold
- No explanation for higher energy bills
- The unit cannot seem to get to the temperature you set
- Popping, banging or grinding noises
Have a licensed and insured technician make an assessment. Our team is on hand 24/7, there is no need to wait till morning for assistance.
Making Ready for the Winter
Prepare now and you will have a worry free season. A fall tune-up will have your furnace running without a hitch through whatever the Carolinas put out.
We have been of service to families in the Carolinas since 1955. Dilling Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee and an A+ rating from the BBB. With a 4.9 star average on some 6,000 Google reviews, our customers have reason to trust us with their comfort. To set up your tune-up before the winter sets in, give us a ring at (704) 741-8773.
