Heating system maintenance is key to a warm, safe home. At Malik Heating & Cooling in Kansas City we help home owners keep their heat strong and steady. Good care can cut bills, stop breaks, and make your home last.
1. Change the air filter on time
A clean filter does not slow down the air movement. Rechange filter on a regular basis of one to three months. Check it every month in case you have pets or live in a dusty house. So apply the appropriate size and filter type. A fine quality filter is able to capture a greater amount of dust.Your system runs less when using a clean filter. That saves fuel and money. Parts may become hot and break down due to a dirty filter.
2. Inspect vents and registers
Ensure that the vents are clear. Do not stuff them with carpets, festoons, or pieces of furniture. Wipe the grills using a wet cloth and remove dust. Move toys and boxes away. In case a room is cold, open the vent as the first option. Clogged vents either make certain rooms too cold or too hot. This renders the system to be uneven.
3. Test the thermostat
Adjust your thermostat to day and night temperatures. Replacements of batteries should occur every year. Consider a smart or programmable thermostat in case your model is elderly. These are able to reduce heat when there is no one around or at night. This saves energy. A mere alteration of the thermostat will reduce a lot of consumption.
4. Look for odd noises or smells
When it is heating, hear banging, clanging or squeaks. This may imply loose or worn parts. In case of a loud clap, the belt or fan might be out of tune. Burning smell, rotten egg smell or gas smell are warning signs.In case of odifying gas, vacate the house and call a gas company and a pro immediately. Do not attempt to repair gas leaks.
5. Keep the outdoor unit clear
If you have a heat pump or outdoor part, keep leaves and snow away. Trim plants so air can pass. In winter, clear snow and ice gently with a broom. Don’t use sharp tools on the fins. A blocked outdoor unit will make the system work hard and may stop running.
6. Clean the blower and coils
Dust can build up on the blower and on the coils inside the unit. This makes the system less able to move heat. You can vacuum light dust from the access panel. For deep clean, hire a pro. Clean coils mean better heat transfer and less energy use. This helps the system run smooth.
7. Check for leaks in ductwork
Leaky ducts waste warm air. Warm air that flows into an attic or crawl space is lost. Seal gaps with foil tape or mastic sealant. Look where the ducts join the furnace and at long runs. If ducts are in the attic, wrap them with insulation. Better ducts mean more heat where you live and lower bills.
8. Test safety systems
Safety devices like carbon monoxide (CO) alarms and smoke alarms must work. Test them every month. Replace CO alarm batteries once a year or as the maker says. If the furnace has a safety switch or a flame sensor, let a pro test it. Safety checks keep your family safe.
9. Schedule a yearly tune-up
A trained tech can clean burners, check the gas valve, and tune the motor. A tune-up in the fall is best. It finds small issues before they break. The tech will also check for leaks and test efficiency. A yearly service can add years to your system life and lower the chance of a cold night with no heat.
10. Use heat smartly
Close doors in rooms not used. Use rugs to help floors stay warm. Set the temp a bit lower at night and add blankets. Small changes in how you run heat can add up. Try to set a steady temp instead of big swings. That helps the system use less energy.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not ignore small sounds. Do not wait until winter to call for a tune-up. Do not block vents. Do not use the wrong filter size. Do not try to fix gas lines yourself. These small errors can lead to big repairs.
Quick season checklist
- Change filter every 1–3 months.
- Check vents and clear blockages.
- Test thermostat and change batteries.
- Listen for odd sounds; check for smells.
- Clear snow and debris from outdoor parts.
- Vacuum light dust from blower and coils.
- Seal duct gaps and add insulation as needed.
- Test CO and smoke alarms monthly.
- Book a pro tune-up in fall each year.
- Use heat wisely and seal windows and doors.
Do you want more tips on saving energy and home comfort? Check our blog for guides on insulation, thermostat choice, and duct care that pair well with these heating system maintenance tips.
When to call Malik Heating & Cooling
Call us if your heat will not start. Call if you smell gas or burning. Call if the system runs but rooms stay cold. Our team in Kansas City can do a quick check or a full service. We will work fast and keep the words clear. We will tell you what we did and why it helps.
A note on filters and savings
Fiberglass, pleated, and HEPA filters work differently. Pleated filters catch more dust. HEPA is best for tiny particles. Extra cost can help your health and system.
Final words
Good heating system maintenance is not hard. It takes small steps and the right help. Do these tasks now, before the cold hits. A little time and care will give you warm days and safe nights. Malik Heating & Cooling is here to help you stay warm all winter.