Winter Checklist: What To Know Before Turning on Your Furnace
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Winter Checklist: What To Know Before Turning on Your Furnace
What every homeowner should do before the cold really hits (so your furnace runs safely, efficiently, and quietly).
Winter’s coming, time to give your furnace a little love before you crank the heat. A quick preseason checklist keeps your family safe, saves money on energy bills, and helps avoid the “no heat” emergency on the coldest night. Luna Heating and Cooling put together this simple, friendly guide so you can feel warm and worry-free all season.
Quick Checklist (Do These First)
- Change or inspect the air filter. According to Energy Star, a clean filter improves airflow and efficiency; check monthly during heavy use and replace as needed.
- Test your thermostat and set a schedule. Make sure it responds correctly and program a comfortable but energy-smart schedule. (Consider a smart or programmable thermostat for savings.)
- Have a pro perform an annual inspection/tune-up. According to the Department of Energy, a trained technician should inspect burners, the heat exchanger, combustion, safety controls, and vents to prevent hazards and keep efficiency up. Annual professional service is strongly recommended.
- Check for carbon monoxide risks — and install CO detectors. Gas and oil furnaces can produce carbon monoxide (CO). The CDC recommends you have working CO alarms and follow guidance on furnace safety. If a CO alarm sounds, get fresh air and call emergency services.
- Clear the area around your furnace and outdoor unit. Remove dust, stored items, and debris so airflow and service access aren’t blocked.
- Inspect vents and flues. Ensure vents are connected, clear of obstructions, and not leaking combustion gases into the house. Seal or repair loose connections.
- Test safety controls and switches. Confirm limit switches and other safety features are working — they protect your system and your home.
What’s Included In a Professional Tune-up
When Luna Heating and Cooling comes for a preseason visit, a standard service will typically include:
- Visual inspection of the heat exchanger and combustion chamber.
- Checking flame quality, fuel input, and ignition.
- Cleaning or replacing filters and lubricating moving parts.
- Tightening electrical connections and checking blower operation.
- Testing for CO and verifying venting is safe.
Daikin also emphasizes regular preventive maintenance to avoid breakdowns and keep equipment operating efficiently, as professional maintenance preserves system life and performance.
Safety Essentials (don’t skip these)
- Install battery-backup CO detectors on each level and near sleeping areas; test them monthly. CO is invisible and odorless, prevention saves lives.
- Never use ovens or grills to heat your home. These practices can release CO.
- If you suspect CO exposure (headache, dizziness, nausea), The EPA instructs to get outside immediately and call 911.
Energy & Comfort Tips That Save Money
- Replace or clean filters regularly to maintain airflow and reduce energy use. The DOE recommends monthly checks during heavy use.
- Seal drafty windows and ducts to keep warm air where you want it. Proper duct sealing improves efficiency and comfort.
- If your system is older, consider an ENERGY STAR rated replacement to reduce heating costs over time.
DIY checks you can do safely
- Replace the filter and make sure it’s oriented correctly.
- Confirm the thermostat display and buttons work.
- Walk around the outdoor unit (if applicable) and clear leaves, snow, or ice, keep a 2-foot clearance.
If you see soot, smell gas, hear unusual banging noises, or find the pilot light behaving oddly, turn off the system and call a pro right away.
Why choose Luna Heating and Cooling
At Luna Heating and Cooling we do honest inspections, clear explanations, and professional tune-ups so your furnace runs safely and efficiently all winter. Book a preseason tune-up with us and sleep warm knowing everything was checked by certified techs.
