Home › Furnace maintenance checklist
Furnace Maintenance Checklist: Fall Tune-Up and Monthly Checks
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. How we make money.
You, monthly
- Inspect, clean or change the air filter (ENERGY STAR). See the filter guide.
- Press the test button on every CO alarm (NFPA, CPSC).
- Keep registers open and return grilles clear (ServiceMag).
A professional, once a year
| What ENERGY STAR says a check-up covers | Why |
|---|---|
| Tighten electrical connections; measure voltage and current on motors | Electrical safety and wear |
| Lubricate moving parts; check the start cycle, operation and shutoff | Reliable starts |
| Check gas (or oil) connections, gas pressure and burner combustion | Improperly operating connections are a fire hazard and can contribute to health problems |
| Check the heat exchanger | A dirty burner or cracked heat exchanger can make the equipment operate less safely and efficiently |
| Check controls and thermostat settings | Safe, comfortable operation |
| Check the condensate drain | A plugged drain can cause water damage and affect indoor humidity |
Source: ENERGY STAR Maintenance Checklist. It says to check the heating system in the fall.
Also
- The CDC says to have your chimney checked or cleaned yearly if your system vents through one.
- ENERGY STAR says to have equipment evaluated if it is more than 10 years old or not keeping the house comfortable.
Need a new filter?
Match the size printed on the old filter's frame. Check your furnace manual before choosing a high MERV rating.
How to change itSee furnace filtersNo carbon monoxide alarm yet?
CPSC and the NFPA say to have alarms on every level and outside sleeping areas. Look for a UL listing and read the label.
CO and your furnaceSee carbon monoxide alarmsCommon questions
When is the best time for a furnace tune-up?
ENERGY STAR says it's best to check the heating system in the fall.
What does a furnace tune-up include?
ENERGY STAR lists tightening electrical connections, lubricating moving parts, checking gas connections and burner combustion, and checking the heat exchanger, controls and condensate drain.