Winter in Riverside, CA might not bring the snowstorms that other parts of the country face, but those chilly nights and cold mornings still demand a reliable heating system. The last thing you want is to wake up on the coldest morning of the year and discover your heater has stopped working. Taking a few simple steps now to check your heating system can help you stay comfortable all season long and avoid emergency repair calls when temperatures drop.

Don't wait until the first cold snap to find out your heater isn't working properly. Call ServLegacy at (951) 291-9954 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a heating system inspection today.

Why Pre-Winter Heater Checks Matter

Your heating system sits idle for months during our warm California summers. Dust accumulates, components settle, and small issues that wouldn't have caused problems in spring can turn into major breakdowns when you fire up your heater for the first time in fall. A quick check before winter arrives gives you time to address any problems on your schedule, rather than dealing with an emergency repair during a cold spell when HVAC companies are busiest.

Regular maintenance also helps your system run more efficiently, which can lower your energy bills. When your heater is clean and all components are working properly, it doesn't have to work as hard to keep your home warm.

Start With a Visual Inspection

Before you do anything else, take a few minutes to look at your heating system. Whether you have a furnace in a closet or a heat pump outside, a visual check can reveal obvious problems.

Look for these warning signs:

Rust or corrosion on the unit or nearby pipes
Water stains or moisture around the base of the system
Loose or disconnected wires
Debris, boxes, or stored items blocking airflow around the unit
Visible cracks in the heat exchanger (if you can see it)
Signs of pests or nests near or inside the unit

If you notice any of these issues, it's time to call a professional. Clear away any items that might be blocking your heating system, but leave repairs to trained technicians who have the right tools and knowledge.

Check and Replace Your Air Filter

Your air filter is one of the most important parts of your heating system, yet it's often the most neglected. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your heater work harder and potentially causing it to overheat and shut down. During heating season, you should check your filter monthly and replace it when it looks dirty.

To check your filter, locate the filter compartment (usually near where the return air duct connects to your system). Slide the filter out and hold it up to a light. If you can't see light passing through easily, it's time for a new one. Most homes need to replace filters every one to three months, depending on factors like pets, allergies, and how often you run your system.

Installing a new filter is simple: just note the direction of the airflow arrows on the old filter frame, slide out the old filter, and insert the new one with the arrows pointing in the same direction. Make sure it fits snugly with no gaps around the edges.

Test Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is the control center for your heating system. If it's not working correctly, your heater won't know when to turn on or off. Start by replacing the batteries if your thermostat uses them. Many heating problems are caused by nothing more than dead batteries.

Next, turn your thermostat to heat mode and set the temperature at least five degrees higher than the current room temperature. You should hear or feel your system kick on within a few minutes. Listen for the sound of the blower motor starting and feel for warm air coming from your vents.

If nothing happens, or if your system cycles on and off repeatedly, your thermostat might need adjustment or replacement. Programmable and smart thermostats can sometimes lose their settings, so check that your schedule is correct and that the date and time are accurate.

Listen and Smell When Your Heater First Starts

When you turn on your heater for the first time in months, pay attention to what you hear and smell. Some sounds and smells are normal, while others indicate potential problems.

Normal first-time startup experiences include:

A slight burning smell from dust burning off the heat exchanger (should disappear within a few minutes)
A few clicks or pops as metal components expand from the heat
The sound of air moving through ductwork

Concerning signs that require professional attention:

Loud banging, grinding, or squealing noises
A smell like rotten eggs (could indicate a gas leak—evacuate and call the gas company immediately)
A persistent burning smell that doesn't go away
Smoke coming from vents or the unit itself

Trust your instincts. If something doesn't seem right, turn off your system and call for help. It's better to be cautious than to risk damage to your equipment or danger to your family.

Examine Your Vents and Ductwork

Walk through your home and check every heating vent. Make sure they're all open and not blocked by furniture, curtains, or rugs. Blocked vents force your system to work harder and can create uneven heating throughout your home. While you're checking vents, look for visible dust buildup or debris that might restrict airflow.

If some rooms in your home never seem to get warm enough, you might have ductwork problems. Leaky ducts allow heated air to escape into attics or crawl spaces before it reaches your living areas. While a full duct inspection requires a professional, you can check any exposed ductwork in basements or attics for obvious gaps, disconnected sections, or damaged insulation.

Consider the Age and Condition of Your System

Heating systems don't last forever. Most furnaces and heat pumps have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. If your system is approaching or past this age, it might be time to start thinking about heating installation or replacement rather than continuing to invest in repairs.

Signs your heating system might be nearing the end of its life include frequent breakdowns, rising energy bills despite normal usage, difficulty maintaining comfortable temperatures, and the need for expensive repairs. A professional can help you evaluate whether repair or replacement makes more sense for your situation.

Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detector

If you have a gas furnace, a working carbon monoxide detector is essential for safety. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly. Test your carbon monoxide detector monthly by pressing the test button, and replace batteries annually. If your detector is more than seven years old, replace it with a new one.

Never ignore a carbon monoxide detector alarm. If it goes off, evacuate your home immediately and call 911 from outside. Don't return until emergency responders have declared it safe.

Know When to Call a Professional

While these simple checks can help you identify obvious problems, some aspects of heating system maintenance require professional expertise. Annual professional maintenance by a trained technician includes tasks you can't safely or effectively do yourself, like checking gas connections, measuring system pressures, testing safety controls, and cleaning internal components.

If you discover any problems during your checks, or if your system is more than a year past its last professional service, scheduling a maintenance visit is a smart investment. Professional heating repair can address issues before they become emergencies and extend the life of your system.

Schedule Your Heating System Inspection Today

Don't leave your comfort to chance this winter. A properly maintained heating system keeps your family comfortable and can help you avoid costly emergency repairs. Whether your heater needs a quick tune-up or shows signs of bigger problems, ServLegacy is here to help Riverside area homeowners stay warm all winter long.

Give us a call at (951) 291-9954 or complete our online contact form to schedule your heating system inspection.

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