Everything You Need to Know to Maintain Your Heating System Properly

Take care of it, and your heating system will take care of you

A woman adjusting the temperature of her house via a thermostat
fizkes/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
A woman adjusting the temperature of her house via a thermostat
fizkes/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Geo Icon

We don’t worry about our heating systems unless there’s a problem or it's already cold outside. To ensure that we don’t have to worry at all, it’s wise to maintain that heating system regularly. It can be overwhelming for a first-time homeowner, but don’t worry; we’ve got the bases covered and are here to walk you through the right way to get the job done.

Schedule Regular Heat Pump Maintenance

The key to making sure your heating system lasts a long time is to schedule regular maintenance. If you have a heat pump system, that means starting with having an HVAC professional inspect your heat pump.

Heat pumps work year-round, both cooling and warming your home. Since they can suffer from wear and tear just through regular use, it’s a good idea to have your pump inspected twice a year, once before the cooler temperatures arrive and once before warm weather settles in. 

Schedule Annual Duct Cleaning

Your HVAC system’s ducts are responsible for delivering and getting rid of heated air as required. It’s important that you have an HVAC professional in your area clean them at least once a year to ensure maximum airflow. 

If you smoke or live with a smoker, have pets, or suffer from allergies, you may want to have your ducts cleaned more than once a year just to make sure things are as clear as they can be and your heating system remains fully operational. If you aren’t sure if once a year is sufficient, ask the HVAC professional you hire for their take.

Use the Right Temperature Settings

If your home heating system operates using a heat pump, you must use the right settings. While it may be tempting to hit the “emergency heat” button on your thermostat to get a quick blast of heat to your home, pressing the “heat” button should be sufficient. You should only use the emergency heat button in—you guessed it—emergencies, like if ice or debris hampers the system. 

Using the wrong setting can be hard on the heat pump and make for additional wear and tear. Plus, you will see higher energy bills if you use the emergency setting as it causes the pump to work extra hard. 

Keep Outdoor Units Clear of Debris

Detail shot of a HVAC system in the backyard of a house
DAVID - stock.adobe.com

Heat pump systems have indoor units and outdoor units. To keep your heating system working efficiently, make sure that you keep those outdoor units clear of debris (like fallen leaves) and ice or snow buildup. 

Replace Air Filters Regularly

Did you know that in addition to heating your home, your heating system also has air filters? And you need to replace air filters regularly to maintain your heating system properly. 

Replacing your air filters every 30 to 60 days does more than cut back on allergens in your home; it keeps your heating system working efficiently. If you don’t know how to replace the air filters yourself, speak with an HVAC professional who will be happy to do it for you or give you a few choice tips. 

Lubricate Older Systems

Owners of newer heating systems can skip this one, but if you have an older model of heating system, ask your HVAC professional to oil the components as needed during your next tune-up. 

Lubricating these older models helps them move air more efficiently and extend your heating system’s lifetime. A well-oiled machine could get you through one more winter without having to replace or retrofit your entire heating system.

Need professional help with your project?
Get quotes from top-rated pros.
The homeowners guide to heating and air conditioning services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
ac unit outside of home
May 19, 2025
May 19, 2025
When a TXV valve goes bad in your AC, you’ll notice it’s not cooling your home. Read on to learn more about TXV valve replacement costs and when to replace it.
A couple spending time together in their living room
May 20, 2025
May 20, 2025
What you’ll pay for furnace repairs depends on many factors, including what parts are malfunctioning, where you live, and even the time of day. Here’s a breakdown of what can go wrong with your furnace and the cost to fix those issues.
Kids sitting on a bench in front of a radiator watching out the window
May 16, 2025
May 16, 2025
Gas furnace replacement costs depend on the type of furnace you want and installation fees. Our guide explains all the factors involved in a new furnace cost.
A woman covered in a blanket reading a book
Apr 23, 2025
Apr 23, 2025
Whether you’ve lost heat or your furnace is making strange sounds, stay calm. Use this guide to determine the source of the problem and your next steps.
Regular home HVAC air conditioner system
May 15, 2025
May 15, 2025
A ductless mini-split heat pump can cool and heat your home without all of the costly and complicated ductwork. Learn more about how a mini-split works.
Bedroom interior with big bed and a sunny window
Apr 25, 2025
Apr 25, 2025
If you’re asking, “Why is my upstairs so hot?” we’re here to help. Read on and learn why it isn’t just poor air circulation causing a toasty top floor.