Every year when cold weather rolls in and furnaces and heaters get fired up, local cooling and heating service providers get an influx of calls about broken heating systems.
“Don’t get caught without heat this winter or stuck with whatever San Diego heating company is available,” says Gabriel Carini, who is an HVAC expert. “Schedule an appointment now to have your heating unit tuned up so it’s ready to go when the temperatures drop.”
Basic maintenance on your heater and air conditioning unit should be done throughout the year like changing filters and keeping return air vents uncovered and dust free, but twice a year you should have the whole heating system inspected and tuned up by a professional. Besides the satisfaction of knowing that you’re prepared, there are several other benefits to getting a jump on the cold weather season.
You are able to choose a company that you trust.
Like the recent NBC Today Show hidden-camera investigation showed, not all air conditioning and furnace repair providers are trustworthy. If you start early, you will have the time to do the research needed to find a reputable heater service company that does good work and offers superior customer service, instead of calling around desperately in the middle of the busy season for anyone who is available.
“Look for fully licensed, bonded and insured companies with a proven track record that are recommended by other people in your community,” says Carini. “Review sites like Angie’s List can be helpful if you don’t personally know many people to ask in your area.”
A heater inspection makes sure the equipment is safe to use.
To lower the risk of fire and carbon monoxide build up, experts recommend getting the furnace serviced before the heating season. Problems with the furnace are among the leading causes of carbon monoxide build up in a home. The early stages of carbon-monoxide poisoning produce unexplained flu-like symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath and mental confusion. Prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide can be deadly.
Preparation prevents surprises like broken parts and pricey heater repairs.
No time is a good time for something major to break down in your home or business, but it does seem to happen at very inopportune times. You won’t be stuck without heat while houseguests are in town or with a pricey heater repair bill just before the big gift-giving season if you prepare the system now.
“In the long run, biannual tuneups are well worth what they cost,” says Carini. “They stave off major repairs by catching problems early and extend the life of the furnace or heating unit. Plus, it keeps your energy bills low by ensuring the unit is running at top efficiency.”
There will be more time to read up on energy saving tips and put them into action.
You can improve your home’s efficiency by doing simple jobs like caulking around windows and door frames, adding weather stripping and sealing up cracks and holes (read – 6 Ways to Weatherize Your Home or Business). A more efficient home also cuts down on energy costs and how hard your furnace has to work to keep the indoor temperature comfortable.
“We want you to have a comfortable home this fall and winter,” says Carini. “Whether you’ve been thinking about upgrading your furnace, trying to improve energy efficiency or just want to make sure your heater is ready to go, give us a call. We can help.”