Prepare your heating system for winter
As Minnesotans, we use our heating systems for nearly half the year. Whether you have a furnace, a boiler, an air source heat pump, or something else, keeping your system in good working order is important to stay cozy in cold temperatures.
An annual heating system tune up can prolong the lifespan of your equipment, as well as keep it as efficient as possible for as long as possible. Not only will a well-maintained system help you save on heating bills, but it will also give you peace of mind that your heating system is prepared for the winter months.
Why is a system tune up important?
Between the frigid winters and humid summers, about 55% of the energy used by Minnesota homes is devoted to heating and cooling. Regular maintenance can help your system perform at its best. During an annual tune up, a professional will check for worn parts, clean the system, check carbon monoxide levels, and generally help your system work as efficiently as possible. This will help you understand your system’s current state, including what repairs are needed or if it’s starting to reach the age where it needs to be replaced.
How much will it cost?
An average furnace tune up ranges from $75 to $200, but your utility may offer rebates for tune ups or other discounted service options. If any repairs are needed, they will likely come at an added cost, but maintaining your system properly should help you save on energy bills and reduce or eliminate unexpected or costly repairs in the future.
Can I do this myself?
We recommend having a professional check your system. Your system’s tune up will include visual and technical inspections, diagnostics, cleaning, and potentially repairs. A professional will be trained in these processes, including how to safely complete the tune up.
How can I keep my heating system running between tune ups?
The easiest thing you can do to make sure your heating system is running efficiently and safely is to replace your filter regularly. The exact amount of time between filter changes will depend on several factors, including your heating system, the filter type, whether you have pets in the home, and more. We typically recommend checking with a contractor about your unique circumstances, but replacing your filter every three months is a good start. Replacing the filter in your heating system will improve the system’s air flow while removing pollutants from the air, making it a good step for system efficiency and occupant health.
Outside Resources
| Green Building Advisor Information on what you can do yourself to tune your heating system and what a professional should do. | Minnesota Department of Commerce The Department of Commerce has a Home Energy Guide that offers more information, including information on heating system tune-ups on pages 26 and 29. | CenterPoint Energy If your heating system uses CenterPoint Energy natural gas, you can pay for regular maintenance through the Home Service Plus® program. | Xcel Energy HomeServe administers a home repair program for Xcel Energy that can include heating system service. |
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