Winter Heating System Prep: Complete Fall Checklist

The ideal time to prepare your heating system is October — before cold weather arrives, before HVAC companies' schedules fill up, and before any problems are exposed by the first real cold snap. This checklist applies to all types of heating systems.

All Heating Systems

Change or Check the Air Filter

Install a clean filter before you start using heat regularly. During high-use months, check the filter monthly. A clogged filter is the most common cause of heating system failures.

Test the Heating System Early

Don't wait for the first cold night to test your heat. Turn the thermostat to heat mode in early October and run it for 30 minutes. You'll detect any issues while you still have time to schedule non-emergency service.

Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Test all CO detectors and replace batteries. CO detector sensors degrade over time — replace any detector more than 7 years old. Ensure you have at least one CO detector on every floor of your home, and one near sleeping areas.

Seal Drafts

Walk the perimeter of your home and check weatherstripping around doors and caulk around windows. Replace deteriorated weatherstripping and re-caulk any gaps. Each gap you seal reduces heating demand.

Gas Furnace Specifics

• Schedule a professional tune-up — includes heat exchanger inspection (critical for CO safety), burner cleaning, and system testing
• Check that the furnace exhaust flue pipe has no gaps, rust holes, or obstructions
• Clear the area around the furnace of any stored items — maintain 3 feet of clearance
• Check that the gas shutoff valve is accessible and in the open position

Heat Pump Specifics

• Clear debris from around the outdoor unit — it will continue operating through winter
• Test the auxiliary/emergency heat function (important for very cold weather)
• Check the defrost cycle operation — heat pump outdoor units should periodically frost up and then run a defrost cycle. Ice that doesn't melt within a few hours indicates a defrost cycle problem

Boiler / Hydronic System Specifics

• Check boiler pressure gauge — should read 12-15 PSI cold. Add water if below 10 PSI
• Bleed radiators — trapped air prevents heat circulation. Bleed all radiators from the top floor down before heating season
• Check the expansion tank pressure — often overlooked, this affects system pressure and reliability
• Schedule a professional boiler service including combustion analysis and heat exchanger inspection