Skilled technician maintaining HVAC systems in commercial buildings

A home heating system is an essential part of life in Connecticut, where the temperature can swing wildly on any given day. A dependable heating system is ready to start up at any moment, but its reliability hinges on its quality and regular maintenance.

Keeping your home heating system in good shape isn’t difficult. Heating systems require regular checkups and an attentive owner. A qualified HVAC company that understands a variety of systems can anticipate issues before they become costly, making them an ideal partner for homeowners who want to manage costs and maximize system lifespan.

Typical Types of Heating Systems

Connecticut’s average home is over 50 years old. That means many Connecticut residents are dealing with systems that are decades old, or deciding on replacements for the original systems.

Heating systems vary by installation cost, maintenance costs, and fuel costs. Here are the basics about conventional heating systems you’re likely to find in Connecticut:

  1. Oil furnaces. These are the traditional, thermostat-controlled combustion systems that heat water and circulate it through pipes or heat air and send it through ductwork to warm rooms.
  2. Gas furnaces. These units use a heat exchanger to heat air, then blow it through ductwork. They use either natural gas or propane.
  3. Boilers. These systems heat tanks of water and circulate it through a system of radiators. They can run on oil, gas, or electricity.
  4. Heat pumps. This newer, electric technology sources heat from the air or the ground, compressing it to intensify its temperature. Heat pumps can produce blown hot air or hot water for heat. Heat pumps can be paired with a conventional system to create a hybrid that maintains its capability to produce heat in frigid weather. Consumers are offered incentives from organizations like Energize Connecticut to retrofit homes with energy efficient electric heat pump units to reduce greenhouse gases. 
  5. Space heaters. These are not considered a heating system, but rather useful for cold spots that a full-house system doesn’t reach effectively.

Maintenance Tips for Connecticut Home Heating Systems

All heating systems, regardless of age or design, need regular maintenance to ensure they are functioning optimally. As they age, heating systems operate at reduced efficiency, making maintenance even more important. Some fuel providers offer maintenance contracts, or homeowners can call in an HVAC professional. Some aspects of system maintenance, particularly in gas systems, should always be handled by a licensed professional for safety reasons.

Follow these steps to keep your heating system in the best possible condition:

  1. Annual tune up. Fall is the best time for a tune-up of your heating system as you want it to be in peak condition for the winter season. If your system is used year-round, such as a heat pump that also does air conditioning, two annual tune-ups are recommended. During an annual inspection and tune-up, the burner is inspected and cleaned, controls tested, and system cleaned.
  2. Filter replacement. This is a maintenance item that’s easy to do yourself, yet it is critical to the proper function of your system. The air filters should be changed monthly during peak season to ensure your system doesn’t overwork.
  3. Digital thermostat. Maintaining the home’s daytime temperature when people are home, and lowering it at night and when you’re away will smooth out fluctuations and save costs.
  4. Maintain Outdoor Unit. Systems with an outdoor component should be kept clean and clear of debris and snow to insure efficient operation.
hvac services, worker install ducted pipe system for ventilation and air conditioning

Warning Signs That Your Heating System Needs Maintenance

When you move to a new home it’s always a good idea to have the heating system inspected by an HVAC professional, to avoid unpleasant surprises. Other times to call in a technician include:

  • When your heating system “cycles” on frequently.
  • If you get a heating bill that’s much higher than usual.
  • If you hear unusual noises or detect unusual odors coming from the system.

For expert maintenance and repair of your heating system, contact Unified Home Solutions. We have over 50 years of experience caring for Connecticut families by making sure their systems run at peak performance.