Total heating capacity of a furnace or boiler is usually measured in BTU (British Thermal Units) or tonnage (one BTU raises the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit).

Air ducts vacuumed by a licensed HVAC contractor. Existence of dust inside is an indication of service need. Some systems have humidifier to provide moisture when heating system dries the air indoor.

How does heating system work?

Flue pipe is for discharging carbon monoxide. Area under flue pipe should be kept clean all time for safe operation.
Gas supply companies add odor for better detection of existence of any indoor gas. Shut-off the main gas line valve if you smell any gas leak. --> Contact gas company immediately.

Air filter should be replaced every quarter or every other month is heating is used quite often. Dirty filters put undue burden on evaporator coil may not function properly when filters have accumulated dirt.

If heat pump works for both heating or air conditioning system, inspecting it for one system will take care of the other one. Do not try to test it both ways: you may damage the system!

Compressor of heat pump has a life expectancy of 7-10 years. Clean leaves, bushes, other materials on regular basis for safe operation of the compressor.

Inspection of water heater

Number of water heaters: -- One -- Two

Type of water heater: -- Gas -- Oil -- Electric

Location of water heater: -- In the garage -- Other ……..

This self-closing water heater door (picture above) is obstructed by books and other materials for safe and easy opening of the door to reach the gas cut-off valve inside.

Age of the water heater: … years (if not written on the equipment, refer to Carrier’s Blue Book to determine its age)

Capacity of water heater: 40 gallons (electric heaters have larger capacity). Electric heater’s recovery (water-heating) capacity is lower.