Heating Maintenance Checklist: Get Ready for Winter

The worst time to find out your heat isn't working is at 11pm on the first cold night of the year. Most heating failures are completely preventable — they start as small issues during the off-season and only show themselves once the system has to actually run for hours at a time. A pre-season tune-up in the fall is the cheapest insurance you can buy on your heating system.

What we check on every heating tune-up

• Inspect heat exchanger for cracks (critical — cracks leak carbon monoxide)
• Test ignition system and flame sensor
• Check and replace air filter
• Inspect blower motor, wheel, and belt
• Test all safety controls and limit switches
• Verify thermostat calibration
• Check gas pressure (for gas furnaces)
• Test heat strips and defrost cycle (for heat pumps)
• Tighten electrical connections
• Measure temperature rise across the unit

What homeowners can do between visits

• Change your filter every 1–3 months — this single habit prevents most failures
• Keep all supply and return vents open and unblocked by furniture
• Clear leaves, snow, and debris away from outdoor heat pump units
• Listen for new noises and call early — small noises are cheap fixes
• Test your CO detectors twice a year, especially if you heat with gas

Signs your heating system needs attention now

Short cycling, uneven heat between rooms, a burning smell that doesn't go away after the first run of the season, yellow burner flames instead of blue, or a sudden jump in your power or gas bill all mean something is off. None of these are normal, and all of them are easier to fix in October than in January.

J&I books heating tune-ups all fall. Lock in your appointment now and head into winter knowing the system is going to do its job. Call us at (336) 521-0224 or request service online.