How healthy is your heater? It might be that your home's heater isn't producing the heat it used to, or you might have noticed some funny noises when you turn it on. The good news is that regular visits by residential heating services can keep your heater in top performance, delivering optimal comfort with high efficiency. What are the priority tasks in a heater maintenance schedule?

1. Cleaning the Combustion Chamber

The combustion chamber is where the fuel for your heater is burned. Having this area cleaned out is important so that your fuel can burn efficiently and completely. A good way to clean the combustion chamber is to use a wire brush. A clean combustion chamber achieves higher fuel efficiency and minimizes carbon monoxide levels 

2. Inspect the Flue Pipe

The flue pipe delivers fuel to the combustion chamber, and a faulty one presents a serious fire hazard risk. Over time, it can harden and crack or break off, so it is important to have this inspected regularly. The technician will replace it if there are cracks or corrosion. 

3. Check and Replace the Oil Filter and Burner if Necessary

A fuel-fired furnace will have a heating oil filter, which should be checked and replaced if necessary. This component is usually not accessed often, so the old filter may need to be removed with a wrench. The new one can then go on with an adjustable wrench or pliers to tighten it. 

Residential heating services will also look at the oil burner. It's usually done when there are problems with the flame size or behavior of the unit that cannot be solved through other methods like adjusting vents or gas valves.

4. Check the Blower Belt for Fraying and Wearing

The blower belt is an essential component of the fan assembly, which helps circulate air throughout the system. Because of friction from movement, it will gradually fray and wear out. You will hear screeching sounds from a loose and frayed blower belt. The technician can replace it easily. 

5. Test the Thermostat Calibration

An important part of your heater maintenance is to test the thermostat calibration. This will ensure that your heater delivers heated air at optimal comfort levels and maintains energy efficiency. In addition, the technician will test its power readings and also accuracy. 

A heating system is a crucial appliance for home comfort and one of the biggest power consumers. As such, it should be in optimal performance with regular performance. For more information, contact a company like Johnson's  Heating &  Cooling.