Regular HVAC maintenance is one of the best investments Ottawa homeowners can make. It prevents costly breakdowns, extends equipment lifespan, and keeps your energy bills in check.
Here's what you need to know about furnace maintenance checklist to keep your system running reliably.
Why Maintenance Matters
The numbers speak for themselves:
Prevent breakdowns — 80% of HVAC failures could have been prevented with regular maintenance
Save on energy — A well-maintained system runs 10-25% more efficiently
Extend lifespan — Maintained equipment lasts 15-25 years vs 10-15 without maintenance
Protect your warranty — Most manufacturers require annual professional maintenance to keep warranty valid
Safety — Annual inspection catches carbon monoxide risks and gas leaks early
What Professional Maintenance Includes
A thorough HVAC maintenance visit should cover:
Furnace inspection: - Heat exchanger check (visual and camera) - Burner cleaning and flame adjustment - Blower motor and belt inspection - Combustion analysis for CO levels - Safety control testing - Filter replacement
AC inspection (spring): - Refrigerant level check - Condenser coil cleaning - Electrical connection tightening - Thermostat calibration - Drain line clearing
Cost: $150-$250 per visit (furnace or AC)
DIY Maintenance Between Visits
What you can and should do yourself:
Monthly: - Check and replace air filter (most important!) - Listen for unusual sounds - Verify thermostat is working correctly
Seasonally: - Clear debris from outdoor AC unit (2 feet clearance) - Check vents are open and unobstructed - Test CO detectors
Annually: - Replace CO detector batteries - Clean supply and return vents - Check for drafts around windows and doors
What NOT to DIY: - Gas connections or adjustments - Electrical repairs - Refrigerant handling - Heat exchanger inspection
When to Schedule
Furnace maintenance: September-October (before heating season)
AC maintenance: April-May (before cooling season)
Booking early avoids the rush and ensures your system is ready when you need it. Emergency calls during peak season can take days to schedule.
Tip: Many HVAC companies offer maintenance plans that include priority scheduling, discounts on repairs, and one or two annual tune-ups for a yearly fee.
The Bottom Line
Regular maintenance is the cheapest way to avoid expensive HVAC surprises. A $200 tune-up today can prevent a $3,000 emergency repair in January.
Due for maintenance? Schedule your annual tune-up — we'll make sure your system is ready for whatever Ottawa's weather throws at it.
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