Furnace Problems? Use This Maintenance Checklist to Avoid Costly Repairs and Extend Its Life.
Furnaces play a fundamental role in keeping your home comfortable year-round—heating your space in winter and circulating cooled air in the summer. Yet most homeowners don't give their furnace a second thought until something breaks down. Unfortunately, waiting until there's a problem can lead to expensive repairs, health risks, or even system failure.

Routine furnace maintenance is essential to avoid surprise breakdowns and get the most out of your heating system. Below, we'll walk you through a solid maintenance checklist, the benefits of staying on top of it, and what warning signs to watch for before it's too late.

House in Salt Lake City, Utah

Why Furnace Maintenance Matters

Furnace maintenance is more than a seasonal task—it's a smart investment in your family's comfort and safety. Here's why it's so important:

  • Enhances Efficiency – A clean, tuned-up furnace uses less energy and effectively heats your home.
  • Protects Your Warranty – Many manufacturer warranties require regular maintenance to remain valid.
  • Saves You Money – Avoid unexpected breakdowns and reduce energy bills.
  • Increases Lifespan – A well-maintained furnace can last several years longer than a neglected one.
  • Reduces Safety Risks – Regular checks catch dangerous issues like gas leaks or faulty pilot lights early.
  • Improves Indoor Air Quality – Clean filters and components reduce airborne dust and allergens.

Maintenance Must: Keep Your Furnace Clean

One of the most important steps in maintaining your furnace is keeping it clean. Over time, debris, dust, and dirt can build up in filters, ducts, and components—making your system work harder and wear out faster.

Benefits of a Clean Furnace:

  • Improved airflow
  • Faster, more efficient heating
  • Reduced strain on the system
  • Healthier indoor air for your family

Common Furnace Problems You Can Prevent

While regular maintenance helps keep your system running well, it also allows you to catch small problems before they become big repairs. Here are some of the most frequent furnace problems homeowners in Salt Lake City, Utah run into:

  • Broken Thermostat
  • Dirty or Clogged Filters
  • Pilot Light Issues
  • Cracked Heat Exchanger
  • Malfunctioning Blower Belt
  • Frequent Cycling on and off
  • Faulty Limit Switch
  • Unusual Noises (Rattling, Banging, Squealing)

If you notice any of these signs, it's time to call 801-906-0925 or text 801-915-2012 Ascend HVAC before the problem gets worse or becomes more expensive.

HVAC thermometer

Your Quick Furnace Maintenance Checklist

Here's a simple list to help you stay ahead of potential furnace issues:

✅ Change or clean air filters monthly during high-use seasons

✅ Schedule professional maintenance at least once per year

✅ Keep air vents and registers clean and unobstructed

✅ Check the thermostat settings and battery (if applicable)

✅ Listen for unusual noises or vibrations

✅ Look for signs of soot or rust near the furnace

✅ Test your carbon monoxide detector monthly

✅ Keep the area around your furnace clear and dust-free

When to Call a Pro

While some furnace maintenance tasks are DIY-friendly, others should be left to certified HVAC technicians. If your furnace is:

  • Struggling to heat your home evenly
  • Running constantly or turning off too quickly
  • Making strange noises
  • Emitting odd smells or visible soot

…then it's time to call Ascend HVAC in Salt Lake City, Utah, for expert service.

Schedule Furnace Maintenance Today

Don't wait for your furnace to fail on the coldest night of the year. With professional maintenance from Ascend HVAC, you can stay ahead of problems and extend the life of your system.

Call 801-906-0925 or text 801-915-2012 now or book your routine service online to keep your home safe, warm, and efficient all year.