As temperatures drop, the last thing you want is a furnace that doesn’t work when you need it most. Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your furnace running efficiently and safely. But who should you call for a furnace check? Here’s your go-to guide to ensure your system stays in top shape all winter long.
Why Furnace Maintenance is Essential
Your furnace does more than just keep your home warm, it’s a major investment in your comfort and safety. Routine maintenance extends its lifespan, improves efficiency, and prevents potential hazards like carbon monoxide leaks. A well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills while reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns during the coldest months. Experts recommend scheduling a professional inspection at least once a year, ideally before winter, to ensure your furnace operates safely and efficiently while maintaining your manufacturer’s warranty.
Who to Call to Check Your Furnace?
Licensed HVAC Technicians
The best choice for furnace maintenance and repair is a licensed HVAC technician. These professionals are trained to inspect and clean essential components such as the heat exchanger, burners, and blower motor. They also check for issues like gas leaks, cracks, or blockages that could compromise performance or safety. Additionally, HVAC experts can optimize your furnace for better energy efficiency, ensuring it runs smoothly throughout the season.
In Utah, non-union HVAC companies can hire individuals with little to no experience and train them on the job. Unlike in some other states, there is no state-mandated requirement for formal training or licensing. This means it’s crucial to choose an HVAC company that emphasizes proper training and certification to ensure high-quality service.
Always ask about a technician’s experience before hiring. Verifying their qualifications helps make sure that the person who’s working on your system is well-equipped to handle the job, and that they provide accurate diagnostics, also will use proper techniques to deliver top-notch service.
Energy Utility Providers
Many energy companies like RMP or Dominion Energy offer furnace checkups at discounted rates or even for free sometimes as part of their energy efficiency programs. While these services typically focus on basic inspections, like checking the air filter, testing the thermostat, and inspecting the heating system for obvious issues they don’t include extensive repairs, they can help identify basic issues and they will recommend professional HVAC assistance if needed.
DIY Diagnostic Tools (With Caution)
For tech-savvy homeowners, smart home devices like the Nest Thermostat can monitor your system, detect irregularities and give you early warning signs, but it can’t diagnose more complex issues like a cracked heat exchanger or detect gas leaks, which only a trained technician can properly identify and fix.
What to Look for in an HVAC Technician
When hiring an HVAC professional, look for key qualifications such as NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification, positive customer reviews, and companies that provide transparent pricing. Additionally, consider whether the technician is part of a union, which often indicates a higher level of training, experience, and adherence to industry standards. Union technicians usually are required to complete rigorous apprenticeships and ongoing education. A thorough inspection should include thermostat calibration, heat exchanger inspection, burner cleaning and adjustment, airflow and ductwork evaluation, and safety controls testing. If necessary, a technician should also replace worn-out parts to prevent future problems.
Who to Call If Your Furnace Isn’t Working?
If your furnace stops working, start with basic troubleshooting. Check your thermostat settings to ensure it’s set to “heat” and the temperature is higher than the rooms temperature. Verify that the power switch is on and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. A dirty air filter can also block airflow and cause system malfunctions, so replace it if necessary. If your furnace has a pilot light, make sure it is lit.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, then it’s time to call a trusted HVAC service provider. Most companies offer 24/7 for emergency repairs, handling common issues such as broken ignitors, blower motor failures, thermostat malfunctions, and dirty burners. Some furnace issues require immediate attention like If your furnace is making unusual noises, blows cold air, emits a strange odor, or fails to turn on altogether, don’t wait to seek professional help. Delaying necessary repairs can lead to more extensive damage and pose serious safety risks.
Prevent Future Breakdowns
Investing in preventive maintenance can help avoid major furnace failures. Smart thermostats, such as the Google Nest Learning Thermostat, optimize temperature control and efficiency, while surge protectors safeguard your furnace from power fluctuations. Joining a professional maintenance plan ensures that your system receives regular checkups, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and in the end it ends up to be help save you money.
Final Thoughts
Don’t wait until your furnace fails to schedule maintenance. Stay warm and worry-free this winter! Regular furnace maintenance is essential for ensuring your home stays warm and safe throughout the winter months. By choosing a qualified HVAC technician and staying proactive with inspections, you can avoid future costly repairs, extend the lifespan of your system, and enjoy a more efficient heating experience. Don’t wait for a breakdown to take action, schedule your furnace check today and keep your system in peak condition. Taking these steps now will help you stay comfortable and worry-free all winter long!
Serving Utah’s HVAC Needs
Utah Mechanical Heating and Air Conditioning proudly serves areas from Lehi to Logan, offering expert residential and commercial HVAC services. Whether you need furnace repair, system replacement, air conditioning solutions, or refrigeration services, their team is ready to assist.
📞 Contact us today: 801–797–3737
✉️ Email: utahmechanicalsystems@gmail.com
Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links in this post are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission at no cost to you if you purchase through them. Thank you for supporting our business!