Getting Your Furnace Ready for Winter: Complete Guide
Don't wait for the first cold night to discover your furnace isn't working. Prepare in fall when weather is mild and technicians aren't overwhelmed.
Bay Area winters are mild compared to other regions, but temperatures still drop enough to make a working furnace essential. Here's how to prepare.
Fall Furnace Checklist
Homeowner Tasks
**1. Replace the Air Filter** After summer AC use, your filter has been working. Start heating season fresh.
**2. Check Thermostat** Switch to heating mode and verify it operates correctly. Replace batteries if needed.
**3. Clear the Area Around the Furnace** Move stored items away from the furnace. Maintain clearance for airflow and safety.
**4. Check Vents and Registers** Make sure heating vents are open and unobstructed by furniture or rugs.
**5. Test the System** Turn on the heat for 15-20 minutes on a cool day. Check for: - Warm air from vents - Normal operation sounds - Any burning smells (slight smell first time is normal as dust burns off)
Inspection Items
**6. Check Visible Venting** Inspect any visible flue pipes for rust, disconnections, or damage.
**7. Listen for Unusual Sounds** Banging, popping, or grinding indicate problems.
**8. Monitor Pilot Light (older systems)** Should burn steady blue. Yellow or flickering flames suggest problems.
Professional Maintenance
**9. Schedule a Tune-Up** A professional should: - Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks - Check burner operation - Test safety controls - Measure combustion efficiency - Inspect gas connections
This is especially important for older furnaces and is a safety issue, not just a maintenance issue.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Install CO detectors near bedrooms and on each level of your home. Test them when you test your smoke alarms. A cracked heat exchanger can release CO into your home.