Each month, New Hampshire Electric Cooperative (NHEC) offers you the chance to Ask the Energy Experts. Got a question about energy efficiency or renewable energy? Send your question to EnergyExpert@nullNHEC.com and get answers from the Co-op Energy Solutions team.

Q: Is it really necessary to get my heating equipment serviced every year? What’s the benefit?

A: Every homeowner should have their heating equipment serviced annually by certified professional. A cleaning, tuning, and efficiency test will keep the equipment operating properly and costs less than $200. This will keep the equipment operating at peak efficiency.

With today’s fuel prices, your energy savings alone could be over $100 per year. A properly maintained system will also be safer and less subject to costly emergency repairs.

Propane systems operate cleaner than oil equipment, but an annual checkup for both should include:

• Check heat exchanger or combustion chamber for cracks, corrosion, and soot.
• Test for CO leaks.
• Combustion testing.
• Test all electrical controls.
• Clean or replace all strainers and filters.
• Replace burner nozzle.
• Repair any fuel leaks.
• Draft testing and chimney (or exhaust) inspection and cleaning.
• Inspect distribution system.
• Check fuel input and combustion flame.
• Remove all dirt, soot, or corrosion from furnace or boiler.
• Check thermostats for accuracy.

A properly maintained system will also improve indoor air quality by preventing spillage of combustion gasses into the home. It’s also a good idea to keep floor coverings and furniture away from registers and radiators to improve circulation and distribution, which will increase comfort.