Heater Maintenance: Simple Steps to Keep Your Home Warm

When winter hits, the last thing you want is a heater that quits on you. The good news is that most heater problems can be stopped before they start. A bit of routine care saves heat, cuts bills, and keeps you comfortable. Below are the checks you can do yourself and the times you should call a professional.

Every‑Month Quick Checks

Set a reminder on your phone for the first Saturday of each month. Grab a screwdriver and take a look at the visible parts of your heater. Make sure the power cord isn’t frayed and the plug fits snugly. If you have a gas heater, smell for any gas odor – a faint smell means a leak and you need a pro right away.

Next, clear the area around the unit. Dust, blankets, or boxes can block airflow and cause the heater to overheat. For electric water heaters, wipe the outer shell with a damp cloth; this stops grime from building up on the thermostat knob.

Turn the thermostat a few degrees lower and listen. A humming sound is normal, but loud rattles or clicks mean something’s loose inside. Tighten visible screws, but don’t force anything you’re unsure about – better to let an expert handle it.

Seasonal Deep Care

Before the heating season starts, do a deeper inspection. Drain a few gallons of water from a tank heater to flush out sediment. Sediment reduces heating efficiency and can rust the tank over time. To do this, turn off the power or gas, attach a garden hose to the drain valve, and let the water run until it looks clear.

While the tank is empty, check the anode rod – a metal stick that protects the tank from rust. If it’s more than half corroded, replace it. It’s cheap and can add years to the heater’s life.

If you own a furnace, replace the air filter every 30‑60 days. A clogged filter forces the blower to work harder, raising energy use and wear on the motor. Also, clean the blower fan blades with a soft brush; dust buildup can cause wobbling noises.

For gas heaters, schedule a professional tune‑up once a year. The tech will check the burner, heat exchanger, and safety valves. This service isn’t cheap, but it prevents carbon monoxide leaks and keeps the unit running efficiently.

Finally, test the emergency shut‑off switch. Turn the heater off, then back on, and make sure it powers up smoothly. If it stalls or the lights flicker, you probably have an electrical issue that needs a licensed electrician.

Stick to these habits and you’ll notice fewer breakdowns, lower energy bills, and a warmer home when the cold arrives. Remember, a little effort each month beats a frantic call to a repair service in the middle of a snowstorm.