HomeServe USA (HomeServe), a leading provider of home repair solutions, today celebrates National Tune-Up Day that was established in 2014 and now has created NationalTuneUpDay.com to provide homeowners information about why they should consider getting a heating system tune-up now! The day, as posted in the National Day Calendar, is part of HomeServe’s ongoing efforts to educate homeowners and protect them from the expenses and hazards of common home repair emergencies.

“HomeServe’s goal in establishing National Tune-Up Day is to serve as a reminder for homeowners to schedule a visit by a qualified technician before the cold weather arrives,” said Tom Rusin, CEO of HomeServe USA.

Scheduling a heating system tune-up before turning the system on for the season is an inexpensive way to help ensure it is running properly, potentially preventing a breakdown during a cold snap. EnergyStar.gov reports that heating accounts for about 29 percent of home energy bills. As a large home energy expense, a professional tune-up is a prudent way to help assure that the heating system is running efficiently. Tune-ups can also protect families from the dangers of carbon monoxide, which pose a health threat when the heating system flue or vent becomes blocked by debris or other material. HomeServe recommends that homeowners tune up their heating and cooling systems every year in advance of seasonal changes.

“Homeowners may take for granted the ongoing operation of their home heating system, and not notice or address potential problem areas, causing an issue to worsen or fail during severe weather conditions,” continued Rusin. “Assuming what worked last season will work again this year can be a risky approach. The reality is that in many parts of the country, climate control systems are seasonal and only used portions of the year, reinforcing the need for annual tune-ups to be sure that parts haven’t worn or broken during months of dormant activity.”

During a tune-up, technicians should check the condition and operation of the following:

  • Flue, vent piping and for carbon monoxide emissions
  • Gas leaks from the gas valve, lines and connections
  • Pilot and burners
  • Motors, pumps and blowers
  • Wiring and electrical connections
  • Visible ductwork and air filter
  • Overall system efficiency
  • Thermostat

According to HomeServe’s August 2015 Biannual State of Home survey, Harris Poll found that nearly half (48 percent) of American homeowners reported a home emergency in the past 12 months, with the most common emergency being a faulty heating or air conditioning system (20 percent).

Households often can’t afford such repairs, with 25 percent of homeowners reporting they have no emergency savings at all, up from 20 percent a year ago. An annual system tune-up can identify small problems before they become larger more costly repairs, saving homeowners time, money and the potential of a no-heat situation in the middle of winter.

For homeowners who want protection from emergency heating repairs, HomeServe offers home heating protection plans, including plans that provide tune-ups. HomeServe also offers service plans for water, sewer, electrical and other home emergencies. All plan holders have the same access to a Repair Hotline that is accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to bring local, licensed and insured technicians right to their home for repairs.

Homeowners interested in learning more about HomeServe’s heating system repair plan options can visit www.homeserveusa.com. HomeServe customers in New York and New England are encouraged to schedule their annual heating tune-up now by calling toll-free 1-844-219-9208.

About HomeServe

HomeServe USA Corp (HomeServe) is a leading provider of home repair solutions serving over 2 million customers across the US and Canada. Started in 2002, HomeServe protects homeowners against the expense and inconvenience of water, sewer, electrical, HVAC and other home emergencies by providing affordable coverage and quality local service. HomeServe, a Better Business Bureau Accredited Business, dedicates itself to being a customer-focused company supplying best-in-class repair plans and other services through leading municipal, utility and association partners, and directly to consumers. For more information about HomeServe, a Connecticut Top Workplace winner again for 2015 and winner of five 2015 Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service, please go to www.homeserveusa.com, follow us on www.twitter.com/homeserveusa and like us at www.facebook.com/homeserveusa.