As we move into the dog days of summer, your home’s heating equipment is probably the last thing on your mind. But effective home maintenance is all about getting out in front of issues or repairs (“preventive maintenance” is the industry term). That’s why our experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab say now is the time to schedule a tune-up for your home’s heating equipment, whether it’s a furnace, boiler, or heat pump.
Why now? Well, for starters, HVAC pros tend not to be as busy during the summer months, especially those based in seasonal climates, where there are fewer central AC systems for them to call on. That means you’ll have an easier time booking a tune-up and you might even pay less for the work, since some HVAC companies offer coupons and discounts during the off-season. Plus, if the technician discovers some part that needs replacing, they’ll have plenty of time to call it in and make the repair.
Compare that scenario with one where your heating equipment suddenly conks out on the coldest day of winter. It could realistically be a few days before you get an HVAC pro into the house and several more before the system is back up and running, depending on the extent of the repair. And forget about any special discounts!
What’s involved in a tune-up?
A tune-up extends the life of your heating equipment, while helping it run at peak efficiency, for lower energy costs. The work depends on the type of heating equipment in your home, as well as its size and configuration. In the case of a forced-air, furnace-driven system, the tune-up will include things like tightening connections, lubricating moving parts, measuring the voltage on the motor, and running a safety check. If there’s a boiler in the basement, the service pro will also check the hydronics for leaks. And if your home runs on a heat pump, they’ll check the refrigerant levels in the system and clean the evaporator coil in the heat exchanger.
How much does a tune-up cost?
Again, it varies. The average cost for a furnace or boiler is around $100, but it can range from $70 to $200, depending on where you live. Heat pump maintenance tends to cost more, up to $350, since those systems deliver both heating and cooling. But like I said, you’ll hopefully pay a bit less during the summer, regardless of the type of equipment.
One last tip: Just make sure, wherever you find an HVAC pro, they have all their credentials, including an up-to-date license and proof of insurance.
Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.
