Furnace and Boiler Maintenance: What to Check Every Year
Gas furnaces and boilers need a yearly checkup to run safely and efficiently. Here's what a maintenance visit covers and when to schedule one.
Why it matters
A furnace or boiler that hasn't been serviced can lose efficiency, break down at the worst possible time, or in rare cases develop a carbon monoxide leak. An annual inspection catches small issues — a worn belt, a dirty burner, a failing sensor — before they become expensive or dangerous.
How often to schedule it
Once a year, ideally in early fall before you rely on the system daily. If your unit is older than 15 years, consider a check in spring too, since aging systems fail more unpredictably.
What a technician checks
A typical visit covers the burner and heat exchanger, gas connections, thermostat calibration, electrical connections, and — critically — carbon monoxide levels. They'll also clean components that build up soot or dust over a season of use.
What you can check yourself
Between professional visits, keep the area around your unit clear of stored items, listen for new or unusual noises, and make sure your carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries — see our detector guide for that.