Is a Furnace Tune Up Worth It?

Cold arctic air brings an average annual snowfall of over 54 inches to the Twin Cities. The long, frigid winter has residents bundled up in mittens and coats, driving over salted roads. When you finally get home, you’re welcomed by the warm air from your furnace.

Nothing works harder or longer in a Minnesota winter than a home furnace but keeping them going requires more than some spot cleaning. You need regular furnace tune ups to keep your heating system functioning throughout the winter season.

This guide covers cost, benefits, and proper timing for furnace tune ups, and answers key questions from local homeowners.

What Is a Furnace Tune Up?

A furnace tune up is a comprehensive inspection, cleaning, and adjustment service performed by certified HVAC technicians. It includes checking:

• Safety controls
• Burners
• Filters
• Blower motors
• Heat exchangers
• Thermostat calibration

These checks are especially needed in a cold climate where furnaces work harder and longer than those in a more moderate climate.

What Is a Furnace Tune Up?

How Often Should You Get a Furnace Tune Up?

The recommended annual maintenance is before the heating season begins, usually in late summer/early fall in the Twin Cities. For homes whose occupants have allergies or asthma, more frequent tune ups may be recommended. These furnace services include inspecting and cleaning, which helps to remove built-up dust and other allergens from the furnace.

Some furnaces may be under warranty, which typically requires regular tune ups according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Staying compliant with your furnace warranty prevents costly fixes down the road.

Why Furnace Maintenance is Especially Important in Minneapolis-St. Paul

Minnesota’s notoriously harsh winters demand reliable heating and efficient systems. The absolute last thing you want is to be stuck in a blizzard with a broken furnace and must rely on the emergency propane heater.

With regular heating maintenance, you also get improved energy efficiency, fewer breakdowns in the coldest months, and an extended furnace lifespan. These are just some of the typical winter heating issues tuned up furnaces help avoid:

1. Diagnose Power Failure: Technicians ensure that thermostats and equipment have stable power, breakers are reset, and panels are properly secured. 
2. Contain Carbon Monoxide Risk: Technicians inspect venting, replace damaged components, and eliminate back drafting to keep homes safe. 
3. Correct Cold Air Output: Technicians verify fan settings, fuel supply, ignition systems, gas valves, duct sealing, and condensate lines to prevent chilly air from blowing. 
4. Balance HVAC Distribution: Technicians optimize ductwork, airflow, and fan speeds to eliminate cold spots and uneven heating. 
5. Stop Short Cycling: Technicians recalibrate thermostats, clear flues, clean sensors, and address equipment sizing issues to restore full heating cycles. 
6. Reduce Excess Energy Use: Technicians fine-tune settings, improve efficiency, and seal leaks to keep energy bills under control. 

If your furnace does go down during the peak of winter, we offer 24/7 emergency heating repair. You’ll never be left without a functional heat source.

What Does a Professional Furnace Tune Up Include?

Typical heating services include tasks, like: 

Cleaning burners and blower wheels 

• Inspecting heat exchangers 
• Checking for carbon monoxide leaks 
• Lubricating motors 
• Checking filters 
• Testing system controls 

A Total Comfort technician will fully inspect and clean your furnace during the course of a tune up. Regular professional maintenance is the best way to prevent costly repairs. That’s why at Total Comfort, we recommend joining our HVAC priority maintenance program. You’ll save on repairs, get priority service, and keep your warranty protected.

Professional Furnace Tune Up vs. DIY Furnace Maintenance

DIY furnace cleaning and inspection is a great way to keep your furnace clean and possibly catch some issues before they become major problems. However, homeowners lack the expertise to conduct a comprehensive inspection.

Thorough tune ups from trained professionals can uncover small issues early on, preventing costly breakdowns. Professionals also help with long-term planning and maintenance. They can let you know when a part may need to be replaced in the future and offer plans to keep your furnace running for longer.

How long does a furnace tune up typically take?

The full furnace installation process typically takes around 1 to 2 days, but a regular furnace tune up typically only takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on the age of the furnace and the size of the home.

How much does a furnace tune up cost?

It’s significantly cheaper than the cost of furnace repair. The average estimate of a furnace tune up service depends on the age and make of the furnace, along with the size of your home. The price could range anywhere from $75 to $300+.

A professional technician from Total Comfort can give you an accurate tune up quote. Just give us a call.

Why Choose Total Comfort for Furnace Maintenance & Tune Ups

Regular furnace tune ups in Minneapolis is a must-have. At Total Comfort, our local technicians and commitment to customer satisfaction ensure a quality tune up every time. Discover Total Comfort’s 5-star service reputation for yourself.

Schedule your furnace tune up today and make sure your heating system is ready to handle whatever winter brings. Call now or book your appointment online.

Are you in The Metro or the surrounding areas? Contact Total Comfort today for an inspection, heating maintenance services, or heating repair.