Top 7 Furnace Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Do Before Winter

As temperatures begin to drop, your furnace quickly becomes the most important system in your home. A little preventative maintenance during the fall can save you from expensive repairs once freezing weather hits. The first and most essential step is replacing your furnace filter. A clean filter allows proper airflow, prevents your furnace from working harder than necessary, and helps keep your energy bills in check. During winter, filters should be replaced every 30 to 60 days to maintain optimal performance.

Next, take a moment to check your thermostat settings. Make sure the thermostat is responding properly and switching between heating cycles as expected. If you notice short cycling or uneven temperatures from room to room, the thermostat may need calibration. This is also a good time to consider upgrading to a smart thermostat, which can help reduce heating costs automatically.

It’s important to inspect all vents and registers throughout your home. Make sure furniture, rugs, or curtains are not blocking them, as restricted airflow forces the furnace to work longer and less efficiently. While you’re at it, take a look around the furnace itself. Keeping the area clean and free of clutter—at least three feet of space—is essential for safe operation and proper airflow. Dust and debris can even create fire hazards if left unattended.

Fall is also the perfect time to test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Since gas furnaces produce carbon monoxide, it’s critical that your detectors are functioning properly. Replace the batteries, press the test button, and replace outdated units if needed. You should also inspect your home for drafts around windows and doors. Even small air leaks can lead to significant heat loss and increased heating usage during the winter. Simple fixes like caulking or applying fresh weatherstripping can make your home feel warmer and reduce strain on your furnace.

Finally, the most important step in preparing for winter is scheduling a professional fall tune-up. A trained HVAC technician will clean internal components, inspect gas or electrical connections, test for carbon monoxide leaks, improve system performance, and ensure that your furnace is operating safely and efficiently. Preventative maintenance like this is the best way to avoid unexpected breakdowns when you depend on your heating system the most.

If you’re ready to get your furnace winter-ready, Planz Heating can help. We service all makes and models and can schedule your professional tune-up whenever you're ready.