“Tune-up” can mean very different things. Here’s what a thorough visit should cover for each type of system.
Furnace tune-up
- Inspect and clean burners and the flame sensor.
- Test the igniter, inducer motor and blower.
- Check gas pressure and combustion, and test for carbon monoxide.
- Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks.
- Test the high-limit, pressure and rollout safety switches.
- Check the venting and, on high-efficiency models, the condensate drain.
- Replace or check the filter; measure temperature rise.
Boiler service
- Check the burner, controls and safety devices.
- Steam: test the low-water cutoff, check the water level and pressure control.
- Hot water: check pressure, the expansion tank, relief valve and circulator.
- Look for leaks at the boiler and accessible piping.
AC or heat pump tune-up
- Clean the outdoor coil and clear debris.
- Check refrigerant pressures and temperatures.
- Test the capacitor, contactor and motors.
- Clear the condensate drain.
- Check airflow and the thermostat; for heat pumps, test the defrost cycle and backup heat.
How long it takes and when to book
Around an hour per system, more if cleaning or a repair is needed. In Chicago, book heating in September or October and cooling in April or May, before the rush.
See HVAC maintenance in Chicago or call (312) 924-7223 to schedule.