Signs That Tell You It’s Time to Have Your Heater Inspected

If you have ever experienced a heating malfunction on a cold winter day or a fire caused by your HVAC unit, you know how crucial it is to maintain a well-run system at all times. Unfortunately, not all homeowners are proactive enough with their heating inspections, which can result in a variety of household problems.

The key is to know when to have your heater inspected so that you have all the information you need to keep it running smoothly and address damages accordingly. However, there is no single rule that guides all heating systems. The frequency of your inspections will depend on several variables including the climate where you live, the type of heater you own, and more.

Below is a list of signs that will help you know when to have your heater inspected, provided by our Hawthorne heating repair specialists at Air Temp Services.

Six Tips for Knowing When to Have Your Heater Inspected or Repaired

• You are expecting a severe winter

As a general rule, the colder your winters are, the more often you need to have your heating unit inspected. If you live in a particularly cold climate, you may need to have your heating system inspected in as little as six months after your last inspection. While this may seem like an added expense, regular inspections are a necessary tool that helps homeowners prolong the lifespan of their heaters and prevent extensive damages which could cost up to thousands of dollars to repair.

Furthermore, the colder the climate is where you live, the more of a burden it is when you have a heating malfunction. Keep warm in even the most extreme weather conditions with the help of a well-maintained heater.

• You are shutting down your heater for the season

Once you have gotten through the cold months and you are ready to shut down your heating system for the season, we advise you to have it inspected by a professional. The reason for this is that your heater works hard during the winter and is therefore at the highest risk of damage during this season. If the cold months have weighed on your equipment, it is important to know this so that you can make plans for a repair or replacement instead of being caught by surprise the next time you try to switch it on.

Additionally, boilers and furnaces tend to accumulate oil and debris during the cold seasons. This will be much more difficult to clean after a few months. However, if you have your system inspected promptly, you will be able to address the mess and ensure your equipment is in top condition for its next use.

• You do not have an electric heater

Electric HVAC systems offer the benefit of being far less hazardous than heaters that run on gas. The latter poses a much greater risk of catching fire if the equipment is not inspected regularly. Therefore, if you do not have an electric heater, we recommend having the unit inspected at least once every year. This does not mean that electric HVAC systems should be neglected. Any system powered by electrical elements could undergo a major malfunction if it is not inspected every few years.

• You notice signs of damage

Between leaks, unusual sounds, and insufficient heating, numerous signs indicate potential issues. The best way to combat heating problems is by having them assessed by a professional at the first sign of damage. Otherwise, the problem may worsen, leading to far more extensive repairs or emergency replacements. If you are looking for a heating repair in Hawthorne, our professionals at Air Temp Services will ensure that no signs of damage are overlooked.

• Several years have passed since your last inspection

Five is the maximum number of years that homeowners should wait before having their heating system re-inspected. If your home is powered by an electric heating unit and you live in a consistently warm climate, the system may function as intended for up to five years without inspection. However, even in the most optimal weather conditions, the longer you wait to call a professional, the more likely your system is to break down. If you are approaching five years since your previous inspection, call a professional immediately.

• Your warranty includes maintenance

When you buy an expensive piece of equipment for your home, it is important to thoroughly read through the warranty so that you can reap all the benefits of your purchase. Some warranties include maintenance services, whether it be a limited amount of free inspections, or ongoing maintenance services at a special rate. If this is the case, you can only benefit from having your equipment inspected on a regular basis.

Get Heating Repair in Hawthorne Today

Is your heater due for a professional inspection? Our expert team at Air Temp Services offers over a decade of experience handling heating repairs in Hawthorne. Contact us today.