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As cooler weather rolls in, it’s time to think about your home’s comfort — and that starts with making sure your heater is ready for the season. Before you switch it on for the first time, giving it a proper cleaning can make a big difference in performance, efficiency, and air quality.
Here’s a step-by-step guide from your neighbors at Lieber Mechanical to help you get your heater in tip-top shape for the winter ahead.
1. Turn Off the Power
Before you do any cleaning, safety first!
Turn off the power to your furnace or heating unit at the breaker box. If you have a gas heater, switch the gas valve to the “off” position as well. This ensures you can clean safely without risk of electrical shock or accidental startup.
2. Replace or Clean the Air Filter
A dirty air filter restricts airflow and makes your system work harder than it needs to — which can raise your energy bills and shorten the life of your heater.
- If your filter is disposable, replace it with a new one (check the manufacturer’s size and type).
- If it’s reusable, remove it and wash it with mild soap and water, then let it dry completely before reinstalling.
For best results, filters should be checked monthly and replaced every 1–3 months during heavy use.
3. Clean Dust and Debris
Dust buildup around your heating unit can affect performance and even become a fire hazard.
Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to gently remove dust from:
- Around the blower compartment
- Vents and registers
- The area surrounding the furnace
If you’re comfortable removing the access panels, you can also carefully vacuum inside — just avoid touching any wiring or delicate components.
4. Inspect the Vents and Ducts
Blocked or dirty vents can limit airflow and cause uneven heating. Walk through your home and make sure all vents are open, unobstructed, and free of dust.
If you notice a musty smell or excessive buildup inside your ducts, it may be time for a professional duct cleaning.
5. Check the Pilot Light or Ignition System
If your heater uses a pilot light, make sure it’s clean and burning blue (a yellow or flickering flame could signal a problem).
For newer electronic ignition systems, inspect for dust or debris buildup that could interfere with proper ignition.
6. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
Even with regular homeowner maintenance, it’s smart to schedule a professional heating inspection before winter. A certified technician can:
- Clean internal components thoroughly
- Check for gas leaks or worn parts
- Test efficiency and safety systems
- Ensure your heater is ready for reliable operation
At Lieber Mechanical, we offer full heating tune-ups to keep your system running smoothly, safely, and efficiently all season long.
Why Cleaning Matters
A clean heater isn’t just about comfort — it’s about health, safety, and savings. Routine maintenance helps you:
Reduce energy costs
Improve indoor air quality
Extend the life of your system
Prevent costly repairs
Stay cozy and worry-free this winter!
Contact Lieber Mechanical today to schedule your heater cleaning or tune-up service. We’re your trusted local experts in plumbing, heating, and air — keeping homes comfortable season after season.
