Are annual furnace inspections really necessary? Here's the answer!

When it comes to spending money, we always keep asking ourselves whether the job is worth it or not. As winter gets closer, the questions of the season are: do I really need to get the heater inspected? Can’t I just turn it on and see what happens? Why are inspections necessary? Well, we’ve found the 5 most common questions about heating inspections and here are the answers you’ve been looking for.

What Is the Purpose of a Furnace Filter?

An image of a new heater filter

The purpose of the furnace filter is to remove any particles that can damage parts of the furnace. Also, these filters help improve indoor air quality (while also reducing allergies!). However, if you don’t replace your filter, particles can build up can also harm your system and health!

Why Should I Get My Furnace and Ducts Cleaned?

Getting your furnace cleaned and inspected will make sure it works properly when you need it. This means you’ll be comfortable in your home during the cold winter months and won’t have to worry about getting an emergency repair service down the road.

As for getting your ducts cleaned, this helps keep the air quality in your home clean and livable. This is especially important if you have allergies, asthma, or pets in your home. If you don’t get your ducts cleaned regularly, you could experience health issues.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I GET MY DUCTS CLEANED?

Ideally, you should get your ducts cleaned every 2-5 years, depending on their condition. There are a few factors that contribute to how often you should clean your ducts:

  • What part of the country you live in
  • How often you use your HVAC system
  • If you have a lot of dust or pet hair in your home
  • If anyone in your family has allergies and/or asthma

Why Does My Furnace Have a Burnt Smell When I Turn It On?

That burning smell when you first turn on your furnace is usually normal. Source: Bob Vila

If your furnace smells like something is burning, don’t panic. It’s common to smell that burnt odor when your turn on your furnace, especially for the first time after a long period of time. That happens because of the dust build up in your furnace.

However, if the smell lingers or gets worse, that means something is wrong. Call a HVAC professional immediately.

AND WHAT CAN YOU DO TO PREVENT IT?

You can prevent that smell by contacting a HVAC professional to have your furnace cleaned and inspected for better efficiency and safety.

How Often Should I Get My HVAC System Serviced?

To keep your HVAC system working properly (and to catch warning signs early when there’s danger), you should get an inspection twice a year:

  • Once before the cooling season
  • Once before the heating season

Even if your system is brand-new, you should get at least one inspection throughout the year.

How Long Should My HVAC System Last?

An image of HVAC systems

Most HVAC systems can last 10 to 15 years, but that’s only the average lifespan. The lifespan of your furnace depends on whether you get regular maintenance, how much you use the system, and if you get minor issues repaired immediately.

HOW CAN I MAKE MY HVAC SYSTEM LAST LONGER AND BE MORE EFFICIENT?

Get regular maintenance! Replacing the filters regularly and having at least one inspection per year will guarantee you a working furnace and HVAC system. Plus, you can make it more energy-efficient by using a smart thermostat to cut down unnecessary heating and cooling.

DON’T WASTE ANY MORE TIME! GET YOUR HVAC SYSTEM INSPECTED RIGHT AWAY!