Preparing Your Furnace for Summer and Next Winter

As warmer weather sets in, folks in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, are using the furnace less. When the transition to air conditioning is made, take time to prepare the heating equipment for summer.

Seasonal Maintenance Checks

Most manufacturers recommend a tune-up in the spring for the air conditioner and in the fall for the heater. Preventive HVAC maintenance examines all elements of a system:

• Clean or replace filter
• Check refrigerant
• Clean drip pans and tubing
• Inspect electrical connections
• Clean coils
• Lubricate all moving parts
• Inspect plenum and housing
• Inspect and clean gas and oil burners
• Ensure unit cycles on and off properly
• Calibrate thermostat

Annual tune-ups can reduce fuel usage by up to 30 percent.

Shut Down Furnace for Summer

Some fuels burn more cleanly than others. Residues can build up on gas- and oil-burning appliances. At the end of winter, make an appointment with an HVAC technician to inspect the plenum and housing of the heating unit. Burning fuel during cold Illinois winters can cause a buildup of residue on burners, housing and other components. These elements should be cleaned to retard corrosion during periods of disuse.

If you have an older system with a pilot light, ask the technician to turn off the unit so that the pilot does not burn during the summer. Newer units with electronic ignitions should also be shut down for summer. This saves fuel and is a safety feature. The system can be restarted during the fall maintenance checkup.

About Assurance Heating and Air Conditioning

Assurance Heating and Air Conditioning provides new installations, preventive maintenance, emergency repairs and scheduled repairs for all makes and models of HVAC equipment. Our more than 35 years of serving residents of northeastern Illinois shows our commitment to the industry. Our name confirms that we will be here when you need HVAC services.

Call (847) 388-0316 and speak to one of our technicians about our HVAC maintenance plans as you prepare your heater for summer. Taking time now can save both time and money when it’s time to restart your heater for fall.