Indianapolis Furnace Tune Up & Furnace Maintenance Service

Furnace Maintenance Service Is a Fall Must-Do

Fall is the perfect time to schedule your furnace maintenance service appointment because it offers the ideal balance between convenience and preparedness. As temperatures begin to cool but aren’t yet freezing, homeowners in the Indianapolis, IN, area have the opportunity to get their furnace serviced before it’s running full-time during winter. Fall maintenance ensures that any minor issues are addressed before they escalate into costly breakdowns in the middle of winter when repair demand is higher and emergency services may be harder to schedule.

By acting in the fall, you also avoid the last-minute rush when everyone is scrambling to have their HVAC systems checked, allowing for more flexible appointment times. Additionally, performing maintenance during the off-peak season can lead to special promotions or discounts, saving you money while safeguarding your comfort. Overall, fall is the best time to make sure your furnace is in top condition for the long, cold months ahead.

Why Get Regular Furnace Maintenance?

Just like you’d probably never put off annual car maintenance, you shouldn’t put off furnace maintenance, either. Furnace tune ups can help prevent future problems, and even catch current problems before they grow to become bigger and more expensive. Some benefits of annual furnace maintenance include:

Lower Utility Bills

A furnace tune up can help lower your utility bills by getting the furnace to run more efficiently.

Extended HVAC System Lifespan

Routine maintenance will extend the lifespan of your furnace and can prevent future problems that might force you to replace your unit prematurely.

Fewer Furnace Breakdowns and Repairs

Preventative maintenance will, as the name suggests, prevent future problems from occurring. Fewer breakdowns and repairs mean a more comfortable home for your family as well as more money in your pocket.

Better Airflow

A thorough cleaning is included in a furnace tune up from B&W. We clear out all the gunk and dirt that has built up since your last maintenance was performed. This will help the air to flow more freely and efficiently from your furnace unit. Not only will the airflow be better, but so will the air quality. Take all of the dirt out of your heating system today and breathe better air by getting a furnace tune up on a regular basis.

A Furnace Inspection Is a Key Part of Our Maintenance Service

A professional furnace inspection is a critical component of the maintenance process, ensuring that your heating system is running safely, efficiently, and reliably. At B&W, our comprehensive furnace inspections go beyond surface-level checks. They provide a detailed look at your system’s overall health and performance, helping to identify potential issues before they become major problems.

During a furnace inspection, our technicians thoroughly examine all major components of your heating system, including the heat exchanger, blower motor, electrical connections, and gas pressure. This detailed evaluation can uncover safety hazards, such as a cracked heat exchanger, which could lead to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks. It also helps us identify issues like worn-out components, electrical malfunctions, or airflow problems that could reduce your system’s efficiency or lead to unexpected breakdowns.

By catching these issues early, a furnace inspection can help you avoid costly repairs, improve the system’s energy efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your furnace. You’ll also gain valuable insights into your system’s overall condition, allowing you to make informed decisions about repairs or replacements before the winter season begins. Overall, a professional furnace inspection gives you peace of mind, knowing that your heating system is ready to keep your home warm and safe throughout the colder months.

What Does Our Furnace Maintenance Checklist Include?

Our professional furnace tune up services help homeowners throughout the Indianapolis area ensure their heating systems are running safely and effectively, especially during the cold Indiana winters. Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your furnace, improving energy efficiency, and preventing unexpected breakdowns. In addition to a complete furnace inspection, here’s what you can expect during a furnace tune up from our skilled HVAC technicians.

Clean and/or Replace Air Filters

Dirty air filters can restrict airflow and put extra strain on your furnace. During furnace tune ups, we clean or replace filters to ensure optimal airflow and improve indoor air quality. Clean filters also help prevent dust and debris from building up in your system, which can lead to performance issues over time.

Check Primary and Secondary Drains

A high-efficiency furnace’s drain system, which removes condensation, can become clogged over time. During a tune up, we inspect both primary and secondary drains for blockages and leaks. This prevents water damage and helps your system operate smoothly.

Vacuum Blower Housing Compartment

Dust and debris can accumulate in the blower housing, which can reduce efficiency and damage the blower motor over time. We vacuum the blower housing compartment to keep your system clean and ensure the motor is functioning properly.

Check and Tighten All Loose Electrical Connections

Loose electrical connections can cause your furnace to operate inefficiently or pose safety hazards. During the furnace maintenance appointment, we inspect all electrical connections and tighten them as needed to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Monitor Voltage and Amperage Draw on All Motors

The furnace’s motors, such as the blower and inducer motors, play a crucial role in heating your home. We monitor the voltage and amperage draw on all motors to ensure they are operating within the manufacturer’s specifications. If the motors are drawing too much or too little power, it could indicate a potential issue that needs to be addressed.

Adjust Gas Pressure to Factory Recommendations

For gas furnaces, maintaining the correct gas pressure is vital to achieving efficient operation and avoiding safety risks. Our HVAC technicians check and adjust the gas pressure to meet the manufacturer’s factory recommendations, ensuring your furnace is running as efficiently as possible.

Check Pilot and Ignition Operation

The pilot light or electronic ignition system is responsible for igniting the gas in your furnace. We inspect the pilot and ignition system for proper operation, making adjustments or repairs as necessary to ensure safe and reliable ignition every time your furnace cycles on.

Monitor Flue Draft for Safe Operation

The flue is responsible for venting combustion gasses, like carbon monoxide, out of your home. We monitor the flue draft to ensure that dangerous gasses are safely expelled and that the furnace is venting properly. A poor draft can lead to dangerous situations, so this check is essential for safe operation.

Check Furnace Safety Controls

A furnace is equipped with multiple safety controls to prevent hazards such as overheating or gas leaks. We test these controls to ensure they are functioning properly, helping to prevent accidents and ensure your system operates safely.

Adjust Airflow for Proper Temperature Rise

Proper airflow is essential for maintaining consistent and efficient heating. We measure the temperature rise (the difference between the air entering and leaving your furnace) and adjust the airflow if needed to meet the manufacturer’s specifications. This ensures your furnace is heating your home efficiently without overworking the system.

Check Operation of the Thermostat

The thermostat controls when your furnace turns on and off. We test the thermostat’s operation to ensure it accurately communicates with your furnace, keeping your home at the desired temperature. If needed, we can also calibrate or adjust your thermostat for better accuracy and energy savings.

Monitor Furnace Heat Cycle

The furnace cycle refers to the heating process from start to finish, including ignition, heating, and shutting down. We monitor the entire furnace cycle to ensure each stage is working as it should. Any irregularities could indicate potential issues that need to be addressed.

Check for Cracked Heat Exchanger

The heat exchanger is a critical component that separates the combustion process from the air that circulates through your home. A cracked heat exchanger can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks. During a furnace tune up, we thoroughly inspect the heat exchanger for any cracks or signs of damage to ensure your system is operating safely.

Furnace Services for Complete Heating System Care

B&W is a full-service provider for all your heating needs in the Indianapolis, IN, area and throughout Central Indiana. In addition to regular HVAC maintenance, we offer expert furnace repair and installation services to keep your home warm and comfortable, no matter what the winter throws your way.

Furnace Repair

Even with regular maintenance, furnaces can experience issues over time. When problems arise, our experienced technicians are ready to provide fast and reliable furnace repairs. Whether your furnace isn’t heating properly, making unusual noises, or has stopped working altogether, we diagnose and fix the issue promptly to restore comfort to your home.

Our team is trained to work with all major furnace brands and models, ensuring that we can handle any repair with confidence. With our 24/7 emergency services, you can trust that we’ll be there when you need us most, even during the coldest nights.

Furnace Installation

If your furnace is outdated, inefficient, or beyond repair, we offer professional furnace installation services to equip your home with a modern, energy-efficient system. Our team will help you choose the right furnace for your home’s size, budget, and energy needs, ensuring optimal performance and long-term savings.

Proper installation is crucial to the efficiency and longevity of your furnace, and with our expert installers, you can rest easy knowing your new system is set up to run at peak performance. We’ll handle everything, from removing your old unit to ensuring your new furnace is installed safely and efficiently, so you can enjoy a warm and cozy home all winter long.

Frequently Asked Questions About Furnace Maintenance Service

What happens if I skip annual furnace maintenance?

Skipping annual maintenance can lead to reduced efficiency, higher energy bills, and a greater chance of breakdowns during the winter. Over time, small issues that go unnoticed can develop into major repairs, shortening the lifespan of your furnace. Regular tune ups help catch problems early and keep your system running smoothly.

How long does furnace maintenance service typically take?

A professional furnace maintenance service usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the condition of your system. During this time, our technicians will inspect, clean, and tune-up key components to ensure your furnace is working at peak efficiency and safety levels.

Is furnace maintenance necessary if my heating system is new?

Even new furnaces benefit from annual maintenance. Regular furnace tune ups ensure your system is working efficiently and help catch any minor issues before they become bigger problems. Maintenance is also often required to keep your manufacturer’s warranty valid, protecting you in case of unexpected repairs.

Can I perform my own furnace maintenance?

While there are a few things homeowners can do, such as regularly changing the air filters, professional furnace maintenance should always be handled by a trained technician. A professional will have the expertise to thoroughly inspect your system, adjust components, and ensure everything is operating safely and efficiently.

Can furnace maintenance prevent emergency repairs?

Yes, routine maintenance can help prevent many common causes of furnace breakdowns. During a tune up, our technicians can identify and fix potential problems before they lead to costly repairs or a complete system failure during the winter.

What should I do to prepare for a furnace maintenance appointment?

Before your furnace maintenance appointment, make sure the area around your furnace is clear and easily accessible for the technician. You should also know where your thermostat is located and ensure that it’s working properly. If you have any specific concerns about your furnace’s performance, make a note so you can discuss them with the technician during the visit.

How much does furnace maintenance cost?

The cost of furnace maintenance can vary depending on your system and the provider, but it’s generally an affordable service that saves you money in the long run. The cost is typically much lower than emergency service repairs or the expense of replacing a poorly maintained furnace. B&W offers furnace maintenance plans that provide regular service and discounts.

How can I tell if my furnace is running efficiently?

Signs of an inefficient furnace include higher-than-normal energy bills, uneven heating, or the system running constantly. Regular maintenance helps improve efficiency by ensuring that your furnace is clean, properly adjusted, and free from issues that can cause it to work harder than necessary to heat your home.

Does furnace maintenance affect indoor air quality?

Yes, a well-maintained furnace can improve your home’s indoor air quality. Regularly cleaning or replacing the furnace filter reduces dust, allergens, and pollutants circulating through your home. In addition, a thorough inspection of the system ensures there are no leaks or issues that could compromise air quality, such as carbon monoxide from a cracked heat exchanger.

Is a furnace tune up worth it for an older system?

Absolutely. Even older systems benefit from regular maintenance. Tune ups can improve efficiency and help extend the life of the system, delaying the need for a replacement. Our technicians can also assess whether repairs are cost-effective or if it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient furnace.

What’s the difference between a furnace tune up and a repair?

A furnace tune up is a preventative maintenance service designed to keep your system running smoothly, focusing on cleaning, inspecting, and making minor adjustments to ensure efficiency and safety. A furnace repair, on the other hand, involves fixing specific problems or replacing malfunctioning parts when something goes wrong with your system.