Your furnace is essential for keeping your home warm and comfortable during the cooler months in Los Angeles. But like any appliance, it needs regular maintenance to run efficiently and safely.
Without proper care, your furnace can lose efficiency, break down unexpectedly, or even pose safety hazards like carbon monoxide leaks. The good news? With regular maintenance, you can extend its lifespan, improve energy efficiency, and avoid costly repairs.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step furnace maintenance checklist so you can keep your system running smoothly.
✅ Step 1: Change or Clean Your Furnace Filter
A dirty air filter is one of the biggest culprits behind poor furnace performance. A clogged filter can restrict airflow, causing your furnace to work harder and consume more energy.
How often should you change it?
- Every 1-2 months during peak usage in the winter
- If you have pets or allergies, check it monthly
How to do it:
- Locate the filter compartment (usually near the blower motor).
- Remove the old filter and check for dust buildup.
- If it’s disposable, replace it with a new one of the same size.
- If it’s washable, clean it with water, let it air dry completely, and reinstall.
Pro Tip: Using a high-quality HEPA filter can improve indoor air quality and reduce allergens in your home.
✅ Step 2: Check Your Thermostat Settings
A faulty thermostat can cause heating issues and increase energy bills. If your furnace isn’t maintaining the right temperature, the thermostat might be the problem.
What to do:
- Ensure the thermostat is set to “HEAT” mode
- Test it by adjusting the temperature a few degrees higher
- If there’s no response, check the batteries or wiring
Pro Tip: Upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures and save on energy costs!
✅ Step 3: Inspect & Clean Air Vents and Ducts
Blocked or dirty air vents restrict airflow and reduce heating efficiency. Dust buildup can also worsen indoor air quality.
How to do it:
- Remove vent covers and vacuum inside to clear dust and debris
- Ensure no furniture or rugs are blocking vents
- If you notice excessive dust, consider professional duct cleaning
Pro Tip: Cleaning your air ducts every 3-5 years improves furnace efficiency and helps reduce allergens.
✅ Step 4: Check Your Furnace Flame Color
Your furnace’s burner flame should always burn blue. If it’s yellow or orange, it could indicate carbon monoxide buildup or an issue with the gas-to-air ratio.
What to do:
- Carefully inspect the flame through the burner chamber
- If the flame is yellow or flickering, turn off your furnace immediately and call a professional
⚠️ Safety Warning: Carbon monoxide leaks are dangerous! If you smell gas or feel dizzy/nauseous, leave your home and call HVAC Pros LA for emergency service.
✅ Step 5: Listen for Unusual Noises
A well-maintained furnace runs quietly. If you hear banging, rattling, or screeching sounds, it could indicate:
Possible causes:
- Loose or broken parts (e.g., blower motor or fan belt)
- Dirty burners causing ignition issues
- Clogged air filters causing airflow problems
Pro Tip: Schedule an annual furnace inspection to catch issues early before they become expensive repairs.
✅ Step 6: Test the Furnace Blower & Limit Switch
The blower motor distributes warm air throughout your home. If it runs continuously or stops working, the limit switch may be faulty.
How to test it:
- Turn off the furnace and locate the blower compartment
- Check for dust buildup or any visible signs of damage
- If the blower doesn’t turn off, a professional may need to replace the limit switch
Pro Tip: If your blower runs non-stop, try resetting the thermostat first before calling for repairs.
✅ Step 7: Schedule an Annual Professional Tune-Up
Even with DIY maintenance, your furnace needs a yearly professional inspection to ensure optimal performance and safety. A trained HVAC technician can:
✔️ Check for gas leaks and carbon monoxide issues
✔️ Inspect and clean burners, flame sensors, and ignition system
✔️ Test safety controls and electrical connections
✔️ Optimize furnace efficiency to lower energy costs
Best time to schedule? Early fall, before the heating season begins, to prevent emergency breakdowns.
Why Regular Furnace Maintenance Matters
Skipping furnace maintenance can lead to:
❌ Higher energy bills
❌ Unexpected system breakdowns
❌ Poor indoor air quality
❌ Shorter furnace lifespan ⏳
By following this furnace maintenance checklist, you can keep your system running efficiently and avoid costly repairs.
Need Professional Furnace Maintenance in Los Angeles?
If you want expert furnace maintenance, repair, or installation, trust HVAC Pros LA to get the job done!
Call us now at (818) 214-8525 to schedule your furnace tune-up and keep your home warm all winter long!
Want to save even more? Ask about our annual maintenance plans to ensure your heating system stays in top shape year-round.
