Heating maintenance is preventative care that includes a full heating system inspection, cleaning, and even small repairs. It’s good for every home, and homeowners should schedule their heating maintenance appointment in the fall before the cold weather hits.

Trio Heating, Air, & Plumbing is available to service your home heating system so you can rest easy knowing your heater will keep your family warm all winter long. We’re San Francisco locals, so we understand how the winter chill can set into your home. You need a furnace that works well — we’re here to help ensure your heating system always runs at peak performance. 

The Importance of Annual Heating Maintenance

Annual heating maintenance is the best way to keep your furnace running at peak performance. It allows your professional HVAC technician the chance to look over the entire system and find and fix any small issues before they become a big deal. This can save your furnace from catastrophic failure mid-winter and help prevent thousands of dollars in repairs or replacement costs. 

Annual heating maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your heating system. In some cases, scheduling annual heating maintenance calls can make all the difference between your furnace lasting only eight years or more than twenty. 

Cleaning out grime and fixing small issues reduces wear and tear and keeps your heating system running efficiently. A clean furnace uses less power or fuel to do its job, saving you on your energy bills and reducing your home’s environmental impact, even if your furnace is on 24/7.

Consequences of Skipping Heating Maintenance

What happens if you ignore your furnace and don’t maintain your heating system? If you skip heating maintenance, blast the heat all winter long, and hope for the best, you’ll likely notice your furnace starting to have difficulty maintaining a consistent temperature in your home. It might be cold in one room and hot in another, or the furnace will turn on and off quickly without thoroughly heating the space. 

You may also notice bad smells from your vents and more dust around the house. Your indoor air quality might worsen, with more allergens, pollen, and mold spores getting dispersed through the vents. 

Over time, smaller problems like a loose belt or faulty valve can become big issues requiring extensive (and costly) repairs. Your furnace may even fail, leaving you in the cold. Depending on the weather, this can also lead to burst pipes in your home.  

If you have a gas furnace, neglecting maintenance is dangerous. A small issue can grow until it causes a gas leak, and your furnace may become a fire hazard over time if certain internal systems fail. 

If you never have your furnace professionally maintained, you may be in danger of voiding your HVAC system’s warranty. Most mandate that the service life of the furnace depends on regular tune-ups.

Key Steps for Preparing Your Heating System for Winter

If you keep a winter checklist for home maintenance, make sure to include the following heating system preparation steps:

1. Do a filter check, and replace or wash the filter if it’s been in place for over 90 days or looks dirty.
2. Test your thermostat by turning on the heat, then slowly raising the temperature in five-degree increments. If the furnace doesn’t quickly kick on and start heating the home, you may need an expert to find the issue.
3. Look for water leaks around the furnace. This is a common problem with high-efficiency models, and the water can damage the furnace or even cause mold to grow in your house if it’s not addressed. Call an HVAC professional to fix the leak.
4. Listen closely to the furnace when it’s on, and call an expert if it starts making squeaking, clicking, squealing, banging, or booming sounds. These can indicate small problems or dangerous issues, so addressing them quickly is a good idea. 

If you have a gas furnace, you should also have the pilot light, flame sensor, and gas lines checked out by an expert to ensure your system is safe. 

Benefits of Professional Heating Maintenance Services

The benefits of hiring Trio for heating maintenance include:

• Improved home comfort and safety, with efficient heat all winter long
• Less stress, knowing your heating system is working at its best
• Lower heat bills and fewer costly repairs 
• Better air quality, with fewer allergens, mold spores, and other nasty particulates in the air you and your family breathe
• Staying within the terms of your furnace’s warranty 
• Trustworthy service — you can count on us to show up on time with good quality parts

How Annual Maintenance Saves You Money in the Long Run

One of the biggest heating maintenance benefits is the money you’ll save. Keeping your furnace running at its best means you’ll have more efficient heating throughout your home, better air quality, and lower energy bills.

HVAC maintenance is necessary to prolong the service life of your furnace and keep you on good terms with the unit’s warranty. 

When It’s Time to Upgrade Your Heating System

Unsure if it’s time to upgrade your heating system to a newer model? Here are some of the biggest signs it’s time to replace your current system:

• Uneven heat throughout your home or no heat coming from the vents at all
• Higher-than-usual energy bills as the furnace starts running less efficiently 
• Your furnace is over 10 years old 
• Loud noises when the furnace is running, including rattling, popping, screeching, or humming.
• Issues starting up, like when a gas furnace doesn’t ignite the gas properly
• Parts are harder to find because the furnace model is outdated
• Repair bills are getting out of hand 

Installing a new furnace may be less expensive than repairs in the long term. It’s better to upgrade your furnace before it possibly breaks down in the dead of winter. In that case, you may be without heat until a technician can do the replacement, leaving you vulnerable to burst pipes and discomfort in a cold house.

A new furnace also comes with plenty of benefits, like programmable thermostat options, smart-home integration, and fast, efficient heating you’ll love.

Contact Trio for Your Annual Heating Maintenance

Trio is here to provide annual heating maintenance and any other services you need for your HVAC system. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and we’ll show you why we’re known for providing the top heating and air services in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Book your annual heating maintenance appointment now so you can be confident that your home heat system is in peak condition when the temperature drops.

As the winter chill sets in across the San Francisco Bay Area, your home’s heating system must be ready to keep your family warm and comfortable. At Trio Heating and Air, we understand that proper heating maintenance is crucial for ensuring your safety and peace of mind, especially during the coldest months of the year. Follow this comprehensive guide to walk through everything you need to know about winter heating maintenance, helping you keep your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently all winter.

Importance of Winter Heating Maintenance

Regular heating maintenance is more than just a recommended practice — it’s essential for the longevity and performance of your home’s HVAC system. Preventative maintenance helps to identify and remedy issues that may otherwise lead to unexpected breakdowns. It also improves energy efficiency and can save you significant money in the long run. 

A well-maintained heating system:

• Reduces the risk of costly emergency repairs
• Improves overall energy efficiency
• Extends the service life of your heating equipment
• Ensures consistent and reliable performance
• Maintains optimal indoor air quality

Signs Your Heating System Needs Immediate Attention

Before winter reaches its peak, watch out for these critical red flags that may indicate your home’s heating system requires professional attention:

• Unusual noises, like banging, rattling, or squealing sounds
• Inconsistent heating, resulting in cold spots or uneven heating across different rooms
• Spikes in heating costs, pointing toward possible system inefficiency
• A heating system that frequently turns on and off for no apparent reason
• Unpleasant odors may indicate mold, mildew, gas leaks, or faulty electrical components

Winter Heating Maintenance Checklist: Step-by-Step Guide for DIY Tasks

While professional inspections and service are crucial, homeowners can follow these heating system maintenance tips to keep their HVAC working at its best.

Air filter maintenance

Regularly replacing or cleaning air filters is one of the easiest and most important DIY heating maintenance tasks. Dirty filters restrict airflow, reduce system efficiency, and can cause unnecessary strain on your heating system.

For most homes, replace disposable filters every few months or clean reusable filters once every month or two. Mark your calendar or set a reminder to ensure you don’t forget this step, particularly as part of your winter heating preparation routine.

Outdoor unit care

If you have any HVAC components that are outside of your home, be sure to keep the area around it clear of debris, leaves, branches, and snow. Maintain at least a two-foot clearance around the unit to ensure proper airflow and prevent potential damage. During winter, remove any snow or ice buildup carefully, avoiding direct contact with delicate components. 

Seal and insulate

Conduct a thorough check of all windows, doors, and other potential sources of air leaks. Use weatherstripping, caulk, or draft stoppers to seal any gaps that could let warm air escape. Pay special attention to areas around window frames and door thresholds. Proper sealing reduces your heating system’s workload and thus lowers your energy bills too.

Vent, register, and grille maintenance

As a homeowner, a regular part of your winter heating preparation checklist should include checking all air vents and registers to ensure they are completely unobstructed by furniture, rugs, or curtains. Vacuum these areas regularly to remove dust and debris that can impede airflow. Use a soft brush attachment to clean vent covers and remove dust. 

Professional Heating Maintenance Checklist

Our expert heating technicians offer a comprehensive heating maintenance service. To keep your HVAC system operating at an optimal level, we recommend scheduling a heating maintenance call at least once a year. This can identify some of the most common heating system problems in winter, like malfunctioning thermostats, pilot light issues, dirty air filters, clogged air filters, duct leaks, and burning smells. 

Thorough system inspection

Our technicians meticulously examine every critical component of your heating system. We carefully check for signs of wear and tear, inspect electrical components for potential hazards, and assess overall system performance. This detailed evaluation identifies potential issues before they become major problems. 

Cleaning and optimization

Our cleaning service goes far beyond a simple surface wipe-down. To help maintain your heating system’s peak efficiency, we clean burners and heat exchangers, removing built-up dust, debris, and potential corrosion. We lubricate all moving parts to reduce friction and wear, which can significantly extend your system’s lifespan. Air filters are cleaned or replaced, as needed, as the thermostat is precisely calibrated.

Safety checks

Safety is our top priority. We check carbon monoxide levels, verify gas pressure and connections, and inspect the heat exchanger to look for any cracks or damage that could compromise system safety. We also verify proper ventilation to prevent any potential safety risks. 

Performance testing

As part of the regular heating maintenance checklist, our technicians measure the efficiency of your system, including airflow and temperature differentials, heating cycle operation, and energy consumption. We check for any irregularities in startup, running, and shutdown processes, ensuring your heating system operates reliably throughout the winter months in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Benefits of Scheduling Professional Heating Maintenance

Investing in professional heating maintenance is crucially important for several reasons:

• Enhanced efficiency: A well-maintained heating system can improve energy efficiency, directly lowering your monthly utility bills.
• Preventative care: Detailed inspections can reveal potential issues before they become major problems requiring costly repairs or replacement.
• Extended system life: Regular maintenance can add years to your heating system’s usable lifespan.
• Improved comfort: Ensure consistent, reliable heating throughout your home all year round.

When to Replace Your Heating System

It’s never easy to decide that you need to replace your home’s heating system. It’s a decision that requires careful consideration. In most cases, age is one of the biggest factors. Most heating systems have an optimal lifespan of 15 to 20 years. However, age alone isn’t the only indicator. You must pay close attention to your system’s performance, efficiency, and repair frequency.

If you find yourself facing increasingly frequent and expensive repairs, it may be a more cost-effective choice to invest in a new, energy-efficient system. Rising energy bills, despite regular maintenance, can also signal it’s time to consider a replacement. Modern heating systems offer significant improvements in technology, energy efficiency, and overall home comfort.

Schedule Your Winter Heating Maintenance Today! 

Don't let the winter catch you unprepared. Protect your home, ensure your comfort, and save money with Trio Heating & Air's professional heating maintenance services. 

Call Trio Heating & Air today at (415) 226-4125 or contact us online to schedule your professional heating maintenance service! We promise prompt customer service and are dedicated to delivering superior work with every job.

At Trio Heating & Air, we realize there’s much to know about duct cleaning; it can even help manage your energy costs. Our team cleans air ducts and provides other air quality services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. The cleaning methods we use are safe, non-toxic, and effective. They reduce the amount of energy your HVAC system uses in several ways and can also increase its lifespan.

How Does Duct Cleaning Work?

Having your air ducts cleaned professionally provides a means of source removal. Instead of filtering dust, dirt, or debris, it physically removes contaminants using advanced vacuum equipment that puts the system under negative pressure. Compressed air nozzles, brushes, and air whips help loosen and remove debris from inside ducts. Once these materials are broken free, they are pulled into the vacuum system.

How Duct Cleaning Reduces Energy Consumption

To understand how cleaning ductwork can control energy usage, let’s look at the potential impacts of neglecting dirty ducts. Dirt accumulation and other contamination can cause the following issues in your home:

• Reduced airflow in your HVAC system.
• Strain on your AC or heater as it tries to compensate.
• Uneven heating and cooling throughout your home.
• Increased wear and tear on HVAC equipment.
• A decrease in energy efficiency.

Air ducts play a significant role in how your HVAC system regulates indoor temperature. Any issue that causes your heating and cooling system to work harder contributes to increased energy consumption. Various issues can cause your energy bill to go up unexpectedly. But duct cleaning can manage your energy costs in the following ways:

Smoother Airflow

A thin coating of dust, pollen, grime, debris, or mold can disrupt the flow of air in ducts. You don’t need a full blockage to cause problems. Increased friction causes your HVAC system to work harder to deliver enough air at the right temperature to different rooms. Duct cleaning removes the materials that cause airflow issues, improving system efficiency and reducing energy costs.

Duct Leaks Can Be Sealed

While cleaning ductwork, a technician can perform an inspection to find duct leaks. These can come from cracks, tears, and loose connections. Sealing these leaks reduces air leakage, which can waste a substantial amount of energy. Depending on the size and number of leaks, 30% or more of the conditioned air can escape into the attic, crawl space, or other unconditioned parts of your home, causing your energy bill to spike.

Improved HVAC System Efficiency

If your ducts are dirty, HVAC components can become dirty, too. Debris can build up on coils, insulating them and impeding heat transfer. All the components of your heating and cooling system are interconnected, so if one's performance is hindered, the system works less efficiently. Therefore, by removing debris, duct cleaning improves efficiency because your HVAC system can run more smoothly.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

A duct cleaning service can improve indoor air quality (IAQ). Better IAQ means fewer pollutants to reduce your HVAC unit’s efficiency. It also contributes to a healthier living space. The same pollutants that coat air ducts—dust, allergens, mold, etc.—can circulate in the air and cause allergies or illness. That’s one more reason to schedule a duct cleaning and find ways to control energy costs.

Increased HVAC System Lifespan

Keeping energy costs down requires improving HVAC system efficiency. When efficiency is improved via duct cleaning and other forms of maintenance, you can reduce wear and tear on the system. This means well-maintained components are less likely to malfunction and break down. The need for premature replacement is also less likely if you schedule regular maintenance (this can include cleaning and sanitizing air ducts).

When to Schedule a Duct Cleaning

The guidelines for cleaning air ducts aren’t as tight as for scheduling annual HVAC maintenance. Nonetheless, it’s a good idea for a technician to inspect ductwork once a year. It allows them to determine if dust and debris are accumulating. More comprehensive cleanings are recommended every three to five years by professionals and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

However, you may want to consider more frequent duct cleanings or schedule one sooner rather than later in the following circumstances:

• You have pets or live in a high-pollen area.
• Members of your family experience increased allergy symptoms or respiratory issues. 
• A significant buildup of dust and debris.
• There are signs of mold or other contamination.
• A home construction or renovation project was just completed.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

If you live in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, you can rely on our licensed technicians to keep your air ducts in peak shape. Trio Heating & Air provides high-quality duct cleaning and other indoor air quality services using the latest tools and technology. We also install whole-home air purification systems. Contact us today to learn more or request an appointment.

Indoor air testing is generally not recommended on a schedule, like routine HVAC maintenance, but it’s a good idea in many circumstances. That’s because indoor air quality (IAQ) is a greater concern than most homeowners realize. People spend up to 90% of their time indoors and pollutants such as dust, pollen, mold, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be highly concentrated. In other words, IAQ can be worse than outdoor air quality.

We recommend IAQ testing for many reasons. The indoor air quality in your home can impact you in several ways, some of which include:

• Health: Exposure to carbon monoxide can be deadly, while dust and other particles can exacerbate allergies and asthma. Mold, VOCs, and some chemicals can trigger illness or long-term health issues.
• Reduced Comfort: If your home has poor indoor air quality, you may be uncomfortable, especially if high humidity, unpleasant odors, and irritating particles or chemicals are present.
• Limited Productivity: Headaches, fatigue, sneezing, coughing, eye irritation, and other symptoms of poor IAQ can affect concentration. A lack of sleep can also reduce productivity.

When Is It Time to Schedule IAQ Testing?

As noted earlier, indoor air testing doesn’t have to be on a schedule. There’s no right or wrong time for it. However, there’s no harm in having your local HVAC contractor test your indoor air quality once a year. That’s up to you. Nevertheless, signs IAQ testing is necessary include the following:

Increased Allergy Symptoms at Home

Allergies don’t only come from dust and pollen. Compounds released by wood flooring, furniture, paint, cleaning products, and other household materials and items can have health effects. The following signs should raise suspicion you have an IAQ problem and should schedule indoor air testing:

• Frequent allergy/asthma attacks while at home.
• Allergy symptoms are present or more prevalent while in your house.
• Your symptoms go away when you leave.

Frequent Colds and Respiratory Problems

A chronic cough, frequent sneezing, a dry throat, or congestion can be caused by indoor air pollutants. These issues may not only be irritating. They can lead to more serious problems if the root cause isn’t addressed. Asthma and lung disease can develop. Therefore, if you or anyone in your household has persistent or recurring colds or respiratory illnesses, consider scheduling IAQ testing in your home. 

Unpleasant Odors Become More Persistent

Your HVAC system should do a good job of filtering out odors. If you often notice musty smells, you may have mold. Other odors that can indicate an IAQ issue include cooking oil, cigarette smoke, gas odors, and chemical-like smells. Chemicals from pesticides and personal care products can pollute indoor air. 

Some compounds can produce toxic fumes that can be irritating and harmful if breathed in. Other odors can indicate issues, such as a malfunctioning heater, that can release toxins you can’t smell, such as carbon monoxide. Therefore, don’t take the presence of odors lightly; they can indicate a serious indoor air quality problem.

You Have Difficulty Sleeping

High levels of pollution can lead to poor sleep quality. If pollutants are heavily concentrated and the temperature is inconsistent, breathing difficulties can occur during sleep. This can affect your alertness and productivity during the day. It can also lead to sleep apnea, low blood oxygen levels in the brain, and other problems. Over time, cardiovascular disease can develop. If improving ventilation or filtration doesn’t relieve your symptoms, consider having your air quality checked.

Indoor Humidity Is Higher than Usual

You may not think of humid air as being polluted. However, high humidity can be an indoor air quality issue. It can allow mold to grow, make you feel more uncomfortable, and damage sensitive materials and furnishings. Even low humidity can cause damage and health concerns ranging from dry skin to respiratory infections. An air quality test can help determine the source of the problem and identify a solution.

You’re Welcoming a New Baby to Your Home

Indoor air testing should be a priority if you’re preparing to bring a new baby home. Babies have sensitive lungs, so they are more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution. Their immune systems also aren’t fully developed. Therefore, organic and non-organic contaminants can threaten their health and development. An IAQ test can identify harmful culprits you can target, so your home is a healthy environment for your baby.

After a Construction or Renovation Project

Construction activities, no matter what preventive measures are taken, release a lot of dust and debris. Toxic chemicals can be released into the air from various materials and processes. Whether your home was recently constructed, one is being built nearby, or your house was just renovated, professional IAQ testing is a good idea. It can identify pollutants so your HVAC contractor can provide cleaning or filtration solutions as necessary.

Inspecting a New House Before Purchase 

We strongly recommend having the IAQ tested before you move into a new home. Older homes can have asbestos and other outdated/banned materials, or issues such as radon may have gone unchecked. Even newer properties can have air quality concerns, as harsh pollutants are found in many construction materials. A professional can clean out the air or install an air filtration or purification system to address any issues.

What Happens During Indoor Air Testing?

When performing IAQ testing, a contractor sets up specialized equipment. The type of devices used depends on the pollutants they’re testing for. Different tests are available to check for VOCs, mold, or carbon monoxide. Radon, a gas found underground that can have long-term health effects, can require several months of testing to accurately detect. A technician may also evaluate humidity levels and your home’s ventilation. 

A detailed report is provided after testing is complete. It explains what was found and may also include recommendations. These can include common IAQ solutions like humidifiers/dehumidifiers, ventilation improvements, and whole-home air purification systems.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

At Trio Heating & Air, our licensed technicians perform IAQ testing and inspections to find airborne contaminants in your home. Thorough evaluations allow us to identify specific pollutants and recommend air quality solutions. These include whole-house air purifiers, air scrubbers, or air duct cleaning or sealing. To get started, call (415) 532-2984 and schedule your indoor air testing appointment.

If you’ve ever needed a heating repair, you probably know the surprise of seeing the cost of a repair bill. The average cost of heating repair in Sunnyvale is $612 (in 2024 dollars), according to Manta. Meanwhile, Forbes puts average furnace repair costs at up to $300. Repair prices can vary considerably based on many factors and sometimes exceed $1,000. This variability can mean the difference between a reasonable price and one that’s costly enough to consider a heating replacement.

The cost of heating repair in Sunnyvale is determined by many variables. Here’s a look at some of them to help you make an informed decision and understand whether a repair is worth it.

The Heater Part(s) You Need

What makes repairs among the costliest heating services in Sunnyvale is the cost of parts. Replacing an ignitor may cost less than $250, while a gas valve can cost just $75 to fix (replacing one can cost up to $600). If a draft inducer motor, heat exchanger, or blower motor can be repaired, this can cost a few hundred dollars, but if such a component must be replaced, expect to spend a lot more. A heat exchanger can cost $1,500 to replace, but a blower motor can cost as much as $2,000.

Other common replacement parts include thermostats, control boards, and air filters. Any heater part can be of a certain type for your specific furnace. There are also many parts brands. Therefore, the cost of parts varies significantly.

However, parts aren’t the only consideration when determining repair costs. After all, the technician must make a profit from the services they provide.

Complexity of the Repair Job

A simple repair job requires much less time and effort. However, if the repair entails more extensive work, more time to reach difficult-to-access equipment and parts, and more effort overall, a heating contractor will charge more. Some issues are more challenging to troubleshoot while replacing larger components is generally more complex than, for example, changing a fuse or thermostat. 

Size of Your Heating System

The larger your heating system and the greater its capacity, the higher repair expenses may be. Larger systems have more parts. Servicing them can also be more time-consuming. Parts for a larger heating system tend to be more expensive too, as they tend to be larger and the repair process tends to be more complex. 

Labor and Service Costs

An HVAC contractor may charge up to $150 per hour for labor. The cost of labor can add hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, to your repair bill. It can vary from company to company and is based on several factors, including the following: 

• Location: In general, labor costs are more expensive in areas with a higher cost of living.
• Type of System: Gas, electric, and other heating systems have specific repair requirements and challenges.
• The Service Needed: Contractors may set different rates for heating repairs in Sunnyvale based on the severity of the problem and the complexity of the repair. A flat fee may be charged for specific services.
• Urgency: An HVAC company may charge two or three times more for labor if you need them overnight, on a weekend, or during a holiday.
• Experience: A heating contractor with decades of experience typically charges more than one with less experience in the field. 
• Time of Year: Heating repair in Sunnyvale tends to be less expensive in the off-season than during the cooler months when parts and labor typically cost more.

Tools and Materials

The nature of the repair job may determine the tools a contractor must use. The cost of obtaining and maintaining these tools, which may include those to take measurements, disassemble equipment, and modify your heating system, must be considered. Materials used, from fasteners to insulation, all come at a cost contractors must include in the price of service.

Building Codes

Depending on where you live, building codes may specify what materials must be used and provide other guidelines for heating repairs. A permit may be required for certain projects. Non-compliance can lead to fines, legal troubles, and other costly penalties. Therefore, following all relevant codes can help manage heating repair costs.

How Well the System Is Maintained

A well-maintained heating system usually requires fewer repairs and is less likely to develop major problems. However, a lack of maintenance can lead to more extensive damage due to unresolved issues. Therefore, filter replacements, cleaning components, and correcting minor issues save you money. By skipping annual service, you can also void the warranty, which means you pay the full cost of a heating repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I Replace My Heater Instead?

The cost of heating repair in Sunnyvale may be too high, and heating replacement may be more affordable, in any of the following situations:

• Multiplying the age of the unit by the repair cost exceeds $5,000.
• The unit is over 15 years old and repairing it costs over 50% of replacing it.
• A licensed professional recommends replacing your heater based on a thorough evaluation.

How Can I Save Money on a Heating Repair?

Regular maintenance can help avoid some heating repairs and save money when a repair is needed. Also, pay attention to how your furnace operates. If there are changes, request service as soon as possible. Proper care for your heater helps keep the warranty valid so the cost of repairs is covered. You can also save by getting quotes from multiple contractors and comparing their prices, services, and reputations.

At What Point Does Heating Repair Not Make Sense?

Consider replacing your heater if it’s 15 to 20 years old. Regular maintenance can help it last that long and ensure repairs are cost-effective up until then. Repairing an old furnace that’s no longer efficient will lead to more expenses, not to mention reduced comfort and, ultimately, a complete heating system breakdown.

Schedule Heating Repair in Sunnyvale Today

Trio Heating & Air is known for professional and reliable heating repair services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Whether your heating system develops issues or breaks down, our licensed technicians can quickly diagnose and fix the problem. They can handle issues of any size or scope. Plus, they’re skilled in providing maintenance, replacement, and other heating services.

Call (415) 226-4257 to schedule heating repair in Sunnyvale or other HVAC services in the Bay Area.

Aside from an annual tune-up, the HVAC professionals at Trio Heating & Air recommend various DIY heating maintenance steps. Heating accounts for a significant portion of your home utility costs. Therefore, it’s important to keep your heater in top shape. You don’t need to be a heating service contractor or have one with you at all times; the following heating maintenance tips ensure your furnace is safe to operate, keeps your home warm, and runs at peak efficiency:

Replace or Clean the Air Filter

Clear Any Clutter Around Your Furnace

Vacuum the Supply and Return Vents

Check that the Burner Flame Is Blue

Adjust the Dampers Seasonally

Replace the Batteries on Your Thermostat and Carbon Monoxide Detector

Check for Vent or Chimney Blockages

Clean Your Whole-House Humidifier

1. Replace or Clean the Air Filter

Replacing or cleaning the air filter is one of the easiest heating maintenance tasks. Check the owner’s manual for its location, how to access it, and what type and size you need. The correct size may be labeled on the filter. Or, you can measure it to find one with the same dimensions. Also, make sure the filter’s efficiency rating is compatible with your heating system.

Remember to replace the main air filter and any filters in the air intake or blower. Generally, filters should be cleaned or replaced every one to three months. However, this depends on their type and quality and heater usage. A clean filter can improve your furnace’s efficiency and increase its lifespan.

2. Clear Any Clutter Around Your Furnace

The area surrounding your furnace should be clear. Storage boxes, containers, cleaning supplies, tools, toys, and other belongings can restrict airflow and make it harder to access your heating system. Cleaning the clutter helps a technician more easily service the unit and its components. It can also help your furnace work more efficiently.

3. Vacuum the Supply and Return Vents

Registers and vents move a lot of air and can collect dust in the process. If not cleaned, they can become blocked, restricting airflow. A lack of airflow can cause reduced heat production, uneven heating, or less air to get to your furnace, which can cause it to perform less effectively. Increased strain can also damage your heating system. 

To avoid trouble, regularly check supply and return vents for dust and blockages. Dust can be brushed or vacuumed away. If any furniture, boxes, cabinets, or toys are blocking vents, move these items to another location so air can flow freely.

4. Check that the Burner Flame Is Blue

The burner flame may be visible through a small glass window or you may have to turn off the furnace and open the cover. The burner flame, or flames, depending on your furnace, should be a vibrant blue hue. A yellow or orange flame is a sign of a combustion problem. It can also mean your heater is leaking carbon monoxide.

Do not attempt to clean, adjust, or repair furnace burners yourself. Contact a professional who’s equipped to safely repair the unit, avoid hazards, and prevent further issues.

5. Adjust the Dampers Seasonally

If the same ductwork serves your heating and cooling systems, it may have dampers. These should be adjusted for each season. This way, the damper on the supply trunk can allow more warm air to lower levels in winter and more cold air upstairs in the warmer months. 

To adjust the dampers, follow the markers on them, the duct walls, or a nearby control. The proper adjustments improve heating system efficiency and avoid performance issues.

6. Replace the Batteries on Your Thermostat and Carbon Monoxide Detector

If it’s battery-operated, a thermostat won’t work properly if its power source is drained. Your heating system can also malfunction. Changing the batteries once a year can prevent issues. The carbon monoxide detector’s batteries should also be changed. While this won’t affect furnace performance, it’ll alert you of a toxic gas leak caused by a potential furnace problem.

7. Check for Vent or Chimney Blockages

The chimney flue vents toxic gases produced during the combustion process. Holes, gaps, or blockages can prevent carbon dioxide and other gases from exiting your home. Check the connection between the flue and furnace for damage and outside vents where vegetation, animal nests, snow, and debris can cause blockages. Clearing debris can avoid indoor air quality and furnace performance issues.

8. Clean Your Whole-House Humidifier

If your HVAC system has a whole-house humidifier, it must be properly maintained. First, determine what type of humidifier you have. The two types often used in homes include the following:

• Evaporative Humidifier: An evaporative humidifier has a pad that soaks up water; this pad must be replaced at least once a year. After you remove the old pad, wipe the interior of the humidifier cabinet to ensure it’s dry, and use a vinegar solution to remove dirt and mineral deposits from the water supply and drain lines.
• Steam Humidifier: A steam humidifier boils water to increase indoor humidity. To maintain it, turn off the humidifier and wait for it to complete a drain cycle. Remove the overflow pan and tank; clean them with a vinegar solution. Then remove the O-ring from the tank and clean the orifice. The O-ring should be replaced if it’s worn or damaged.

Heating Maintenance Tasks You Should Not Do Yourself

Do not perform any task that requires accessing the interior of your furnace. You risk causing damage to sensitive components. For example, many DIY help guides explain how to clean the combustion chamber, burners, flame sensors, blower, etc. These should always be free of buildup. However, only a well-trained, properly equipped professional should attempt to clean them.

Also, call an HVAC company if you notice issues such as a cracked heat exchanger, corroded parts, excessive soot, irregular flames, short cycling, a leak, or unusual odors.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

When you need a furnace tune-up, we provide high-quality work and can service any brand or model. Customers in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area rely on us to keep their heating systems in top shape. Our technicians are professionally trained, knowledgeable, and courteous while being committed to ensuring your home is safe and comfortable. To schedule heating maintenance, book your appointment or call (415) 226-4125 today.