According to Bob Vila, a modern furnace will typically last for 20 to 30 years. However, units aged 15 years or older may need to be replaced. Your furnace will likely last longer if you practice proper maintenance, and one key part of this maintenance is scheduling regular inspections to determine whether you need furnace repair. Here are four steps you should take to prepare for a furnace inspection.

Clean Your Furnace

Over time, debris can accumulate on and around a furnace. Be sure to clean the exterior of your unit before your inspection to ensure that it's easily accessible. This will make it easier for your furnace repair technician to see issues like cracks and leaks. However, while removing debris from your unit is important, you should avoid wiping away any marks left behind by leaking fluids. Keeping these marks intact will make it easier to diagnose problems with your unit.

Clean the Vents

Your furnace repair technician may need to access your furnace vents during the inspection. Before the inspection takes place, be sure to clear away any items that may be blocking the vent. If there are heavy items like large furniture or appliances in front of the vents, you may want to call the furnace repair company ahead of time to confirm whether these will need to be moved.

Be Present for the Inspection

It's important to schedule your furnace inspection for a time when you'll be home to communicate with the furnace repair technician. This way, you can ask them any questions you may have, and they can give you clear instructions on how to proceed with caring for your furnace. Being home for your inspection is especially crucial if you have pets in the house, as you'll need to keep them out of the way.

Budget Effectively

Depending on the results of your furnace inspection, you may need to spend a significant amount of money to repair or replace your furnace. Be sure to have more money saved up than you realistically expect you'll need, and talk to the furnace repair company upfront for an accurate idea of how much the inspection itself will cost.

Taking the above steps will help ensure that your furnace inspection goes as smoothly as possible. If you're ready to schedule a furnace inspection, contact Valley Metal & Heating Inc today to get started.