HVAC pros will tune up furnace

By Karen Youso, Star Tribune

Last update: December 17, 2008 - 12:10 AM

Q Who do I get to have my furnace checked?

A Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) technicians who work for heating contractors and utilities are qualified to do furnace tuneups. They are listed in phone directories under "heating contractors." Remember that HVAC technicians aren't licensed by the state. (Those who work in Minneapolis are licensed, however.) They do post a bond with the state in the event of non-code-compliant work.

Before hiring a technician to service your heating system, officials at the Minnesota's Office of Energy Security recommend that you run through this checklist to make sure these items are included in the service:

• Clean, lubricate and check belts and pulleys in the blower system of a forced-air furnace.

• Perform a carbon monoxide test.

• Check the combustion air inlet for proper sizing and make sure the combustion air supply is sufficient.

• Inspect and clean the flue, chimney and connections from the furnace to the chimney.

• Check burn performance and make adjustments as needed.

• Clean the heat exchanger and inspect it for cracks or warping.

• Check the blower fan on/off settings to make sure they are set for maximum efficiency.

• Check the fuel supply and fuel line filter in oil-burning furnaces.

• For boilers, do all of the above, plus lubricate and clean the pump system and expansion tank.

• Be sure the technician also does a safety and efficiency check on your water heater.

In addition, ask the service person to recommend and demonstrate some routine maintenance measures you can take to keep your furnace running efficiently between service calls.

Prices vary. Call around, but be sure you're comparing the same job.

Send your questions to Fixit in care of the Star Tribune, 425 Portland Av. S., Minneapolis, MN 55488, or call 612-673-7032, or e-mail fixit@startribune.com. Past columns are available at www.startribune.com/fixit. Sorry, Fixit cannot supply individual replies.

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