# Essential Furnace Maintenance: A Complete Guide
Your furnace works hard to keep your Bay Area home comfortable during cooler months. Proper maintenance ensures safe, efficient operation and prevents costly breakdowns.
Safety First
Before any maintenance: - Turn off power to the furnace - Turn off gas supply - Allow the system to cool completely - Never attempt to repair gas connections yourself
Homeowner Maintenance Tasks
Monthly During Heating Season
Check Air Filter A dirty filter is the #1 cause of furnace problems. Replace or clean filters monthly during heavy use.
Inspect Vents and Registers Ensure all vents are open and unobstructed. Blocked vents cause pressure imbalances that stress your system.
Seasonal Tasks
Clean Around the Furnace Keep the area around your furnace clean and clear. Don't store items within 3 feet of the unit.
Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors CO detectors save lives. Test monthly and replace batteries annually.
Check Thermostat Function Ensure your thermostat is working correctly. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better efficiency.
Professional Maintenance Tasks
Annual professional tune-ups should include:
Safety Inspections - Heat exchanger inspection for cracks - Carbon monoxide testing - Gas connection inspection - Flue and venting verification
Performance Checks - Combustion analysis - Gas pressure adjustment - Blower motor inspection - Electrical connection tightening
Cleaning - Burner cleaning and adjustment - Blower wheel cleaning - Flame sensor cleaning - Pilot assembly cleaning (if applicable)
Signs Your Furnace Needs Attention
Call for service if you notice: - Yellow or flickering pilot light - Strange odors (especially gas smell) - Unusual noises - Frequent cycling - Uneven heating - Increasing energy bills
Bay Area Furnace Considerations
Coastal Areas Higher humidity can affect pilot lights and ignition systems. Annual tune-ups are especially important.
Older Homes Many Bay Area homes have furnaces from the 1980s or older. If your furnace is over 15 years old, discuss replacement options with a professional.
Efficiency Matters California's mild winters make high-efficiency furnaces less critical than in colder climates, but properly maintained equipment still saves money.
Maintenance Schedule Summary
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Filter check/change | Monthly |
| CO detector test | Monthly |
| Area cleaning | Quarterly |
| Professional tune-up | Annually (fall) |
Regular maintenance prevents 95% of furnace breakdowns and ensures safe operation. Don't skip your annual tune-up!