How to Prepare Your Heating System for Winter

Bay Area winters are mild but still require reliable heating. Prepare your system before the first cold night catches you off guard.

DIY Preparation Steps

1. Replace the Air Filter Start the heating season with a fresh filter. This is the single most important maintenance step you can do yourself.

2. Test Your System Early Don't wait for the first cold night. Run your heater in October to identify problems while HVAC companies aren't swamped.

3. Check Thermostat Function - Replace batteries if applicable - Verify heating mode works - Test programmed schedules - Consider a smart thermostat upgrade

4. Inspect Visible Vents - Remove vent covers and vacuum dust - Ensure furniture doesn't block vents - Check return air vents for obstructions

5. Clear Around the Furnace Remove stored items near the furnace. Maintain 3 feet of clearance for safety and airflow.

6. Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors - Test all CO detectors - Replace batteries - Replace detectors over 5-7 years old

Professional Fall Maintenance

Schedule a professional tune-up that includes:

For Gas Furnaces - Heat exchanger inspection - Burner cleaning and adjustment - Ignition system check - Gas pressure verification - Safety control testing - Flue inspection - Combustion analysis

For Heat Pumps - Refrigerant level check - Reversing valve operation test - Defrost cycle verification - Outdoor coil cleaning - Auxiliary heat test

For All Systems - Electrical connection check - Thermostat calibration - Airflow verification - Ductwork inspection

Signs You Need Heating Repair

Watch for these warning signs:

• Yellow pilot flame (should be blue)
• Unusual odors when heating starts
• Strange noises (banging, squealing, grinding)
• Short cycling (frequent on/off)
• Uneven heating throughout home
• Higher than normal bills

Address issues before they become emergencies.

Energy-Saving Tips for Winter

1. Lower thermostat to 68°F when home
2. Use setback temperatures when away or sleeping
3. Seal drafts around windows and doors
4. Run ceiling fans clockwise on low to push warm air down
5. Open south-facing blinds during sunny days
6. Close fireplace dampers when not in use
7. Add insulation if attic is below R-38

Preparing Outdoor Components

Heat Pumps - Remove debris from around unit - Check that coils are clean - Verify defrost drain is clear

Furnace Exhaust - Check exhaust vent for blockages - Verify no bird nests or debris - Ensure vent termination is clear

When to Call a Professional

Contact an HVAC technician if: - System doesn't produce heat - You smell gas or burning - CO detector alarms - System makes unusual sounds - Pilot light won't stay lit - Circuit breaker trips repeatedly

A small investment in fall maintenance ensures warm, reliable heating all winter.